Malaysia HF in hunt for GM

(This quashes rumors that a former Malaysian international has been offered the post, and is only waiting for the offer letter from the National Sports Council. The Malaysian Hockey Federation will be conducting an interview, and those interested can apply to the attached e-mail).

ANNOUNCEMENT

Malaysian Hockey Federation (MHF) is urgently seeking for a suitably qualified personnel to fill the position of:

GENERAL MANAGER

Requirements:

Academic Qualifications

1 Holds a Bachelor of Business Administration or Management; or a higher degree from a recognized Tertiary Institution.
2 Sports Management and higher qualification shall be an added advantage.

Hashim Mohamed Yusoff

Experience

3 A minimum of five (5) years of experience in management, planning and financial oversight.
4 At least three (3) years experience in senior managerial position.
5 Good knowledge in the field of hockey.
6 Must have knowledge in operating and administration plans as well as budget management.

Other Relevant Information

· Selected candidates shall be based in Kuala Lumpur.
· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
· Possess strong analytical skills and ability to work independently with good planning skills.
· Mature, good managerial skills, knowledgeable and able to contribute ideas to the governing body and the game of hockey.
· Well versed with Information Technology and Microsoft Office softwares.


Interested candidates are invited to apply through post or email with detailed resume to:

Malaysian Hockey Federation
2nd Floor, National Hockey Stadium,
Bukit Jalil,
57000 Kuala Lumpur
Email: malaysiahockey@gmail.com

Closing Date: 5th July 2009

Note:
Only short-listed candidates will be notified.

India tops, Malaysia 7th

(From www.fihockey.org)
India became the first winner of the Women’s Champions Challenge II in hockey history. The Indian team defeated Belgium (6-3) in Saturday’s exciting final in Kazan, Russia. Ireland took the bronze medal, defeating Ukraine 2-1.

India played a perfect match, especially like the Asian team did in the entire Champions Challenge II. Leading 2-0 at half time, India extended the score early in the second half. With Belgium scoring three times, the Indian women’s team did what the Indian men’s team sometimes forget when leading: India kept attacking and scoring goals and didn’t fall back in just defending.

Rani Rampal was the match winner with four goals in the final. She became also top scorer of the event.

Ireland won the bronze medal after defeating Ukraine in the bronze medal match. Belarus claimed the fifth position after a victory over Canada. Malaysia finished seventh and host Russia claimed the eight position.

DAY 5 REPORTS

FINAL: India defeated Belgium 6-3 (2-0 HT)

India played the perfect match in the final against Belgium. During the first 15 minutes, both team had their chances, but it was India that finally opened the score when Rani RAMPAL scored the first of her four goals in the final. India extended the lead three minutes later through a field goal of Saba ANJUM

After leading 2-0 at half time, India kept attacking. It was again RAMPAL who scored three minutes into the second half. Belgium came back quickly, but India kept looking for goals. Every time Belgium hoped that the gap between the two teams was almost closed, India scored another goal. When RAMPAL put the 6-2 on the score board with only 15 minutes to play, it was clear that India would win the Women’s Champions Challenge II

Bronze medal match: Ireland defeated Ukraine 2-1 (1-0 HT)

In temperatures of 30 degrees Ireland won the bronze medal defeating Ukraine by 2-1. Ireland started the game well creating chances and in the 11 minute after great work by Irish Captain Eimear Cregan set up Roisin Flinn to give Ireland the lead. Ukraine forced two penalty corners in the half but solid defence sent Ireland in at half time 1-0 up.

Ukraine equalised against the run of play in the 45 minute when a free hit into the circle took a deflection giving Irish keeper Goode no chance. Ireland pushed for the winning goal and were rewarded in the 64 minute when from a penalty corner Flinn got the final touch to score her second and Ireland’s winner.

Irish Coach Muller said after the game “We played very well throughout and deserved victory. I am very happy with the way we played over the course of the competition and overall this was a very beneficial Tournament for our preparations for the European Championship in August.”

Match for fifth position: Belarus defeated Canada 2-1 (1-0 HT)

Belarus upset Canada in the match for the fifth position at the Women’s Champions Challenge II by winning 2-1. Both teams were eager to win the encounter and sometimes needed some physical play, especially from the Belarus side, during the entire match. Umpires Thomas and Kaltypan showed four green, three yellow and one red cards. Belarus player Yuliya MIKHEICHYK tried to injure a Canadian player near the end of the match and received the red card for her offence. Tournament Director Barbara Morgan suspended MIKHEICHYK for the next international match played by the Belarus team.

Despite the high number of cards, the match stayed interesting until the end. Belarus opened the score just before half time when captain Volha SHYNTAR converted a penalty stroke. In the 57^th minute, Belarus scored for a second time and at that stage it looked like the match was locked. Depite being two goals behind, Canada kept fighting. It was Stephanie JAMESON who scored the 2-1 with just six minutes to play. Canada kept looking for the equalizer, but didn’t succeed to force extra time.

Match for seventh position: Malaysia defeated Russia 2-1 (0-0 HT)

Host Russia didn’t succeed to win a match at the Women’s Champions Challenge II. In the match for the seventh position against Malaysia, the Asian team was stronger: 2-1. Earlier in the tournament, Russia drew against Malaysia 2-2.

After a first half without any goals, Malaysia opened the score in the 42^nd minute when Nurul Md MOKHTAR converted a penalty corner. Russia was behind for only 5 minutes. Olga SHENTSOVA put the 1-1 on the scoreboard from a penalty corner. Although the home crowd hoped that this would give Russia the spirit to win the match, but Malaysian Nurul Md MOKHTAR ended Russians hope by scoring the match winning goal in the 67^th minute, again through a penalty corner.

Women’s Champions Challenge II Day 5: Scores and Scorers

Match 17 – 7-8 – Russia v Malaysia 1-2 (0-0 HT)
0-1 MAS Nurul Md MOKHTAR PC 42m
1-1 RUS Olga SHENTSOVA PC 47m
1-2 MAS Nurul Md MOKHTAR PC 64m

Match 18 – 5-8 – Belarus v Canada 2-1 (1-0 HT)
1-0 BLR Volha SHYNTAR PS 35m
2-0 BLR Alesia PIOTUKH PC 57m
2-1 CAN Stephanie JAMESON PC 66m

Match 19 – 3-4 – Ukraine v Ireland 1-2 (0-1 HT)
0-1 IRL Roisin FLINN FG 8m
1-1 UKR Maryna VYNOHRADOVA FG 45m
1-2 IRL Roisin FLINN PC 62m

Match 20 – 1-2 – India v Belgium 6-3 (2-0 HT)
1-0 IND Rani RAMPAL FG 17m
2-0 IND Saba ANJUM FG 20m
3-0 IND Rani RAMPAL PC 38m
3-1 BEL Valerie VERMEERSCH PC 40m
4-1 IND Rani RAMPAL FG 44m
5-1 IND Chancahn THOKCHOM FG 49m
5-2 BEL Valerie VERMEERSCH PC 52m
6-2 IND Rani RAMPAL FG 54m
6-3 BEL Jil BOON FG 55m

Final Ranking:
1. India
2. Belgium
3. Ireland
4. Ukraine
5. Belarus
6. Canada
7. Malaysia
8. Russia

Individual Awards:
Fair Play: Ukraine
Top Goal Keeper: Nadine KHOUZAM (BEL)
Player of Tournament: Surinfer KAUR (IND)
Youngest Player: Rani RAMPAL (IND)
Top Goal Scorer: Rani RAMPAL (IND)
Best Defender: Stephanie JAMESON (CAN)
Most useful player: Nikki SYMMONS

Jacko jokes from the www. (wild wily wreaths)

JUST FOR LAUGHS, TAKE WITH A PINCH OF SANITY...

When Farah Fawcett got to heaven, and went through the pearly gates, she was greeted by God. "Wow!" exclaimed the Holy Ghost. "We really enjoyed your work here. Especially Charlie's Angels! I still have a poster in my office of you with that red bikini!" Farah is a little taken aback. "Thank you, Lord..." Jehovah goes on, "Well, I have a special reward for you. I'm prepared to grant you one wish. Have anything in mind?" Not one to act selfish and change God's opinion of her, Farah thinks for a second and decides upon a wish. "I'd like for all the children of the world to be safe and sound forever." "Done!" exclaims the Heavenly Father. He snaps, and Michael Jackson appears next to Farah.

FOR SALE -- One white glove with slightly stained middle finger.


BREAKING NEWS: The government have stated Michael jackson can't be cremated cause it's against their green policy. As his body is over 80% plastic he has to be recycled... and i guess turned into toys.


Michael Jackson's upcoming london dates have been canceled. They were James 9. and Thomas 11.

Madonna sent her condolences to the Jackson family. Then asked how much they wanted for the kids.



michael jacksons not really dead, he's been found at sea bobbing on a boy.

Reports that Michael Jackson was in the ER having a heart attack were false. He was actually in the childrens ward having a stroke.

How is Michael Jackson like a cigarette? They are both mostly white, they are bad for children and another name for them is "a fag"...


Whats the difference between michael jackson and sir alex ferguson......ferguson can still play giggs this summer



Michael Jackson’s death has now been ruled a suicide. Apparently doctors told him that the only way he could get whiter is if he died.

Mcdonalds is going to honor michael jackson with a burger called Mcjackson.apparently its a 50 yr old piece of meat in 4yr old buns.


2 paramedics standing next to jacko, one said to the other, "how do u perform CPR", the other one said "well, do u see that heart there, just beat it"

What were Michael Jackson's last words? "Take me to the children's hospital."

Jakkos dying wish was to be cremated and have his ashes mixed in with kellogs coco pops cereal so he could go through young kids asses one more time


What do Michael Jackson and Farrah Fawcett have in common? They'll both be at next Friday's John Denver concert.

The Jackson family to the funeral directors: "Do you take plastic?".

Michael Jackson, mother Theresa and George Bush were flying on an airplane full of elementary school children. The engines die and the plane is about to crash. There are only 3 parachutes. Mother Theresa:We have to save the children! George Bush: Screw the children! Michael Jackson: Do you think there's time?


NEWSFLASH! Uri Geller has reported Michael Jackson is said to be distraught after finding out ghosts can't have sex. Casper the friendly ghost is said to be relieved.

Under-18 league in all states

UNLUCKY in the first round but miserable failures thereafter was Malaysian Hockey Federation (MHF) president Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah's summary of Malaysia in the Junior World Cup.

The Juniors finished 12th in the 20-team competition and Tengku Abdullah admitted that this proves the structure in the states and schools has failed.
The MHF management committee, which Tengku Abdullah chaired yesterday, took the first steps towards checking Malaysia's slide by making it compulsory for all states to have an Under-18 league and to work with the Education Ministry to produce a world class junior team for the 2013 Junior World Cup.
"First of all, I would like to say that we failed to reach our target of reaching the medal rounds purely on luck as we lost out to Spain on goal difference," said Tengku Abdullah.
"But after that, we failed to finish ninth and I take that as a setback.
"These were the best players we have, and if they failed, it means the state and school structure has failed. I am not saying that the states' structure has collapsed, but it needs strengthening."
The management committee will present the Under-18 league proposal at the council meeting next month.
"After the council endorses the proposal to have an Under-18 league in every state, we will start work immediately. Hopefully, all states will run the league simultaneously by this year.
"If each state can have six teams, and 10 states hold the league, we will at least have another 1,200-odd players to bank on when conducting selections."
The MHF will also invite the Education Ministry to sit with it and plan for a schools league.
"We need to strengthen basics at the school level, because to achieve our target of breaking into the top 10 bracket in the senior level, we need more quality youth."
For a start, MHF will include two Junior World Cup players in the national squad for the Champions Challenge II on July 6-12 in Ireland.
Malaysia will play against Austria, France and Russia while the other group has Ireland, Chile, Poland, and Japan.
Faizal Shaari, 18, who scored eight goals in the Junior World Cup, and midfielder Marhan Jalil, 19, will play in Ireland.

Van Ass: Chaotic style the bane

DUTCH coach Paul van Ass loves to watch the "chaotic" Asian style of
playing hockey, but sadly, it is not good if one is looking for results
at international level.
  The Germans are boring, the Dutch systematic, the Kiwis hardworking,
while the Australians simply brilliant, and all four made the semi-finals
on team-work.
  "I love to see the chaotic Asian playing style because it is nice to
watch, but sadly, structure and systematic approach produce results,"
said van Ass.
  Asian teams fell by the wayside despite their individual flair, and
stubbornly refuse to learn how to play hockey to win, and not play to the
gallery, even though it was evident decades ago that the European
systematic attack which has produced results.
  Pakistan fifth, South Korea seventh, India ninth, Malaysia 12th and
Japan 13th sum up precisely where flair and individual skill normally end
up.
  The fact that Pakistan were the inaugural champions in 1979, but have
been struggling since, and India only hitting a high in 2001 but in the
shadows for the past two editions, indicates where Asian hockey is
heading.
  Germany were champions in 1982, 1985, 1989, 1993 and 2009, and that
speaks volumes of their development structure, especially the focus on
clubs.
  German coach Uli Forstner lamented the fact that he did not have his
players together until one week before the tournament, and it was the
same for van Ass.
  And the reason for this is that the Dutch and Germans place great
emphasis on club tournaments and their players were involved in the
European Hockey League and the Bundesliga right till the end.
  The EHL and Bundesliga coaches made sure the players were fit and all
clubs played a similar style, so when they are regrouped, the players
adapt fast and there is no need for long periods of centralised camps,
like practised in Malaysia.
  However, since the club structure in Malaysia is very loose, with each
coach having his own idea on how hockey should be played, and schools
simply not bothered to strengthen basics, national coaches are left with
a messy situation.
  It is only in Malaysia where the national coach must teach his pool of
recruits how to stop the ball, how to hit, and also prod them like cattle
to keep them fit.
  Seven players from coach K. Rajan's team have been selected for
attachment to the senior side. But other than Faizal Shaari, 18, and
goalkeeper Abdul Hakim, 21, one does not see much hope in the others.
  Faizal scored eight of Malaysia's 15 goals, while Hakim, even though
playing behind poor defenders, managed to keep Malaysia afloat to finish
12th among 20 teams.
  It was almost a two-man show, as the others lacked even the basics, and
the blame lies squarely on our schools, and chaotic club structure.

Need drastic action

Comment By Vijesh Rai
(Sports Editor NST)

SO, was the Junior World Cup a success story for Malaysia?
  Some believe it was as the national juniors finished 12th, a position
which didn't seem possible as recent as eight months ago.
  Coach K. Rajan inherited a mediocre squad and there was genuine fear
that Malaysia would struggle in the Junior World Cup against even the
minnows.
  They didn't but in finishing 12th, the team were successful in only
proving outright that they are the products of a system that has failed.
  Sure, the rest of the Asian representation didn't do well either but it
is Malaysia that we should be concerned about and after two weeks of a
world class tournament, we know for sure now that we can't deny any
longer that the game here is seriously ill.
  The players in Johor Baru are mostly products of the Bukit Jalil and
Bandar Penawar Sports Schools - therefore the best in their age group -
and 12th was all Malaysia could manage.
  If this doesn't set off the alarm bells, I don't know what will.
  For sure, Malaysian Hockey Federation president Tengku Abdullah Sultan
Ahmad Shah now knows what a challenge it is going to be for him.
  The honeymoon period that he has enjoyed since taking over the
presidency last November is over and he has to start making the right
decisions if he wants to make a mark on Malaysian hockey.
  The structure - be it at the national or grassroots levels - needs a
total revamp and Tengku Abdullah has to get the Education, especially,
and Sports ministries involved.
  Getting their support shouldn't be a problem for Tengku Abdullah but it
is the other aspect - the affiliates - who will be his problem.
  It has become the norm for state associations to resist changes, even
if for the better, and the latest show of power came from an association
that was once very close to Tengku Abdullah's heart - the FA of Malaysia.
  When he was a deputy president, Tengku Abdullah would often say that it
was unfair to blame only the national body for the ills of Malaysian
football.
  The states too had to share the blame and Sunday's annual congress -
where they rejected a proposal to only allow those holding positions in
district FAs or clubs to contest for positions - shows how resistant they
can be.
  It is with this in mind that I have to say the proposed restructuring
of the M-League - as directed by Sultan Ahmad Shah - won't happen.
  It has been pointed out time and again that FAM should adopt a
structure where only the fittest are allowed to play in the top-tier of
Malaysian football but this, no doubt due to the power of the affiliates,
has never even been considered.
  Sultan Ahmad Shah, in his address, mentioned it and I, along with those
who still follow Malaysian football, will be pleasantly surprised if this
is realised.
  It is the same with hockey for the power to change lies with the states
and can Tengku Abdullah get them to toe the line?
  If he can't, the juniors will start following the footsteps of their
seniors and miss out on major tournaments.

India back in the frame

MALAYSIA were on "if" standby to host the 2010 World Cup, said
International Hockey Federation (FIH) president Leandro Negre after he
watched Malaysia lose 3-2 to Belgium in the 11th-12th classification
match at the Taman Daya Stadium in Johor Baru on Saturday.
  India, said Negre, were in disarray on four matters when Malaysia were
placed on standby, but they have almost got matters sorted out and should
be able to host the senior World Cup.
  "Four matters were of concern to the FIH when we placed Malaysia on
standby. The first was facilities, then securing a title sponsor,
security and the merger of men's and women's bodies under one umbrella,"
said Negre.
  "The facilities should be ready to host Test matches by the end of the
year, and they have a title sponsor, even though the amount is smaller
than expected.
  "India have also pledged to beef up security and we have approved the
formation of Hockey India to merge the men's and women's bodies which we
hope will be done soonest."
  On the Junior World Cup, Negre said his personal feeling is that the
tournament should never again be hosted by two countries.
  "On a personal note, and not an official statement from FIH, I feel the
logistics involved when two countries host it is simply too demanding,
and if I have my way, it will never happen again," Negre said.
  "However, I would like to congratulate Malaysia and Singapore for doing
a wonderful job as there were only minor glitches and all went
accordingly." The plus point is that, added Negre, is that both countries
now have two new pitches each.
  "It is good for hockey that Singapore and Malaysia now have two new
pitches each and this could in turn help develop the sport further."
  The Taman Daya Stadium in Johor Baru is smack in the middle of a middle
class housing estate, and there are many schools nearby. The stadium
belongs to the Johor Baru City Council and if they open it to schools to
train at a discounted rate, then hockey will get a boost in the state.

Blaak blunder lands Germans fifth title

FINAL -- Netherlands 1 Germany 3; Third-Fourth: New Zealand 1 Australia 4.

FINAL STANDING: 1 Germany, 2 Netherlands, 3 Australia, 4 New Zealand, 5 Pakistan, 6 Argentina, 7 South Korea, 8 Spain, 9 India, 10 Poland, 11 Belgium, 12 Malaysia, 13 Japan, 14 Egypt, 15 South Africa, 16 England, 17 Chile, 18 Russia, 19 Singapore, 20 USA.

ROLL-OF-HOOUR: Best Player of the Final: Florian Fuchs (Germany)
Best Player of the Tournament: Simon Child (New Zealand).
Best Goalkeeper: Nicklas Sakowsky (Germany)
Top Scorer: Mink van der Weerden (Netherlands, 13 goals).
Fairplay: Germany.

IT was not a moment of brilliance as predicted by German skipper Martin Haner, but a Dutch blunder which landed the Germans their fifth Junior World Cup title at the Taman Daya Stadium in Johor Baru yesterday.
The match was tied 1-1 and looked like it was heading towards the sudden-death, but a boo-boo by Dutch goalkeeper Pirmin Blaak gave the Germans the break they were looking for and they went on to win 3-1. For the record, the Germans were also champions in 1982, 1985, 1989 and 1993.
The Dutch were contended with moving the ball around, and kept attacking at the minimum. Most of the forwards went into the semi-circle looking for a penalty corner, and they finally got it in the 21st minute.
Tournament top-scorer Mink van der Weerden took his tally to 13 with a powerful drag-flick, and the ball was almost invincible until it went crashing into the net.
Germany were shocked, but fought back for the equaliser with a series of attacks, and the capacity crowd went wild when Marco Miltkau deflected home in the 24th minute, and the match finally started.
The half-time hooter saw them entering the dressing room tied on goals, but the Germans had more circle penatrations, and looked deadlier, while the Dutch kept looking for their second penalty corner, but it never came.
Instead, it was the Germans who won their first penalty corner in the 41st minute, but their set-piece was too fancy and the score remained.
The Dutch were in their element, and defended well, but a 56th minute blunder by their goalkeeper Pirmin Blaak saw them trailing.
A tame cross from the right reached Blaak, who was under no pressure to make a clearance, but he kicked softly towards his defender, but the ball reached Florian Fuchs and he cooly tucked in the lead.
And even before the Ducth could recover, Jan Fleckhaus scored off a melee in the 61st minute, and it was good enough to land the Germans their fifth title.
Meanwhile, Australia outclassed their neighbors New Zealand 4-1 in the bronze playoff.
Australia went on a scoring spree and were 3-0 by half-time, with a brace from Timothy Bates (14th, 27th) and Michael Bates (27th). New Zealand pulled one back in the 47th minute with an effort from Joseph Bartholomew, but Adrian Lockley locked out the Kiws out with a 69th minute goal.

FIH Pictures

Dutch hold slight edge

GERMANY has won the Junior World Cup four times, while it was a good 24 years ago when the Netherlands last made the finals, but the odds heavily favour the Dutch, who have a penalty corner machine with them for the Ninth Edition.
Pakistan (1979), Australia (1997), India (2001), Argentina (2005) and Germany (1982, 1985, 1989, 1993), are the only five countries that have tasted glory since the tournament was incepted.
And it was the Germans who denied Netherlands the title in 1985, in Vancouver, Canada. But if 20-year-old Mink van der Weerden is on form again, the Dutch will join the ilustrious list of Junior World Cup champions.
Mink is currently the top-scorer with 12 penalty corner goals, and even German skipper Martin Häner admitted that only two things could snatch the title away from their grips.
"One is a flash of brilliance from the Dutch, and the other is Mink. We must make sure that we give him the least opportunities because he is deadly during penalty corners," said Haner.
The German skipper said his team-mates have been at their best so far, and he is confident they will perform again as a team in the final.
"We have four titles and will be going for our fifth. I have full confidence on my team-mates to deliver again," said Haner.
And the skipper has some good words to say agout their youngest player, 17-year-old Florian Fuchs who scored two goals against Australia in the semi-finals, which included the sudden-death match winner.
"Fuchs is simply awsome with the ball and he executes training drills just as well during matches. And when he beat one Australian defender, and then the goalkeeper but the ball moved to a narrow angle, I knew he was going to score even before he took the hit that took us into the final," said Haner.
The Germans have history on their side, while the Dutch will be out to create history, so the crowd can expect some excellent hockey on Sunday at the Taman Daya Stadium in Johor Baru.

Late show not enough

MALAYSIA paid a heavy price for their inconsistency as they lost 3-2 to Belgium at the Taman Daya Stadium in Johor Baru yesterday to finish 12th in the Junior World Cup.

Needing a win to please their fans, who still turned out in droves, Malaysia were guilty of sleeping in the first half and only playing hockey in the remaining 35 minutes.
The first half was pathetic, as Malaysia failed to even make one dangerous penetration into the Belgium semi-circle, and goalkeeper Jeremy Gucassoff had a nice time watching the match from a distance.
But at the other end, Malaysian goalkeeper Abdul Hakim was mercilessly pounded and after bringing out several superb saves, finally let in the first goal in the 26th minute, tucked in by Felix Denayar.
The absence of suspended top-scorer Faizal Shari was sorely felt and just before the halftime hooter, Simon Gougnard made it 2-0.
Malaysia remained as a punching bag at the re-start, and Amaury Keusters made it 3-0 with a field goal in the 40th minute.
Izwan Firdaus narrowed the gap with a 43rd minute field goal, and R. Nadesh made it 2-3 with a 69th minute field goal as Malaysia's campaign came to an end.

India 9th, Malaysia 12th

RESULTS -- Nine-10th: India 4 Poland 0; 11th-12th: Malaysia 2 Belgium 3; 13th-14th: Japan 2 Egypt 1; 17th-18th: Russia 3 Chile 5; 19th-20th: USA 1 Singapore 3.

SUNDAY: Final -- Netherlands v Germany (7.30pm, Johor); Third-Fourth: New Zealand v Australia (5pm, Johor).

All European affair

German players celebrate Florian Fuchs’ (left) golden goal against Australia in the semi-finals yesterday. Germany take on the Netherlands in tomorrow’s final. Pic: HAIRUL ANUAR ABD RAHIM.

THE stage is set for an all-European final tomorrow in hockey's Junior World Cup at the Taman Daya Stadium in Johor Baru.

In the semi-finals yesterday, Germany beat Australia with a sudden death goal, while the Netherlands downed New Zealand 4-1.
The Germans were tied 2-2 with Australia but took the first chance that they received in the sudden-death to break Aussie hearts.
The Oceania teams -- Australia and New Zealand -- will batle for the bronze.
Germany got off to a cracking start when they took a 2-0 lead. Florian Fuchs shook Australia with an 18th minute field goal, and Patrick Schmidt made it 2-0 with a penalty corner effort in the 27th minute.
The Germans became comfortable when they felt that the Aussie fire had been doused, but Aaron Kleinschmidt punished them with a 34th minute field goal.
Australia, energised by Kleinschmidt's goal, drew level in the 44th minute when Matt Ghodes deflected in a cross, and took the match into extra-time sudden death.
The Germans soaked up the pressure before Fuchs struck in the fourth minute of extra-time when he received a deft pass and beat goalkeeper Leon Hayward.
At the Sengkang Hockey Stadium in Singapore. New Zealand played their hearts out and by half-time, Simon Child's 22nd minute goal was enough for them to plan for a better second half against the Netherlands.
But the Dutch had other plans and in the 39th minute, Jan-Willem Buissant equalised with a field goal and Mink van der Weerden made it 2-1 with a 60th minute penalty corner attempt.
The Dutch won another penalty corner in the 62nd minute, and Mink broke New Zealand's resistance with another sizzling flick. The floodgates became open, and Robert Kemperman made it 4-1 for the Dutch in the 65th.
Asian teams Pakistan and South Korea kept their structure in the classification to finish fifth and seventh respectively.
Pakistan beat former champions Argentina 4-1 at the Sengkang Hockey Stadium while South Korea made amends for their poor show in the pool matches when they edged Spain 4-3 to finish seventh.

MHF urged to stick with Rajan

THOUGH Malaysia failed to meet the target of reaching the semi-finals of the Junior World Cup and are reduced to fighting for 11th place today with Belgium, Johor HA president Tunku Majid Sultan Iskandar will propose to the Malaysian Hockey Federation (MHF) that K. Rajan be retained as Juniors coach.

Tunku Majid feels that Rajan, whose contract expires after the Junior World Cup, has done an excellent job in turning around a bunch of no-hopers into a fighting side in just eight months, and as such, he should be given the task of training a team for the 2013 Junior World Cup.

"I took him in to coach the Juniors when I was the president of the MHF, and back then, even I was worried that this bunch of Juniors could become better players in time for the World Cup.

"But Rajan has done an excellent job and the Johor HA will propose to the MHF council to offer him a contract to train the next Junior World Cup team," said Tunku Majid.

Rajan was the third coach hired to train the Juniors after two others quit because the boys were in such poor shape that beating Singapore was also an uphill task.
Even in March,when Rajan was rebuilding the team, his boys could only score a pathetic 2-1 win over Singapore in a friendly.

Last year, Tai Beng Hai, who is now coach of the national senior team, quit the Juniors team after they went on a losing spree of 30 friendly and tournament matches.

Germany and Netherlands final

RESULTS -- Semi-finals: Australia 2 Germany 2 (Germany win with sudden-death goal), Netherlands 4 New Zealand 1; Fifth-Sixth: Argentina 1 Pakistan 4; Seventh-Eigtht: Spain 3 South Korea 4; 15th-16th: England 2 South Africa 2 (South Africa win 6-5 on penalty strokes).

SATURDAY: Nine-10th: India v Poland (8pm, Singapore); 11th-12th: Malaysia v Belgium (5.30pm, Johor); 13th-14th: Japan v Egypt (5pm, Singapore); 17th-18th: Russia v Chile (8pm, Johor).

Malaysia must beat Belgium at any cost

MALAYSIA, despite not enjoying home ground advantage four years ago, finished 10th in the Junior World Cup. This time around, despite the backing of capacity crowds at the Taman Daya Stadium, the best Malaysia can hope for is 11th -- that too if they beat Belgium tomorrow -- but coach K. Rajan believes the team haven't failed.

He points to the fact that Malaysia have lost only two matches -- 2-0 against South Korea and 2-1 against Poland -- and believes the future isn't necessarily bleak.

"This indicates that the gap between junior teams around the world is not that big, so we need to start grooming our Under-16 boys from today if we want to remain competitive in the next World Cup," said Rajan.

That is especially true for Asian hockey as South Korea, India, Pakistan and Japan all missed the semi-finals, while European and Oceania teams are within touching distance of the trophy.
What action Malaysia will take for the next edition will only be known in the coming days but for the moment, they have to face Belgium without Faizal Shaari, easily Malaysia's best player in the tournament.

Scorer of eight of Malaysia's 15 goals, Faizal is suspended after picking up a third yellow card against Egypt on Wednesday.

"We will miss Faizal as he has scored more than 50 per cent of our goals, and it will make it that much harder against Belgium.

"However, I have my strategy and if the plan is followed on the pitch, we will finish 11th." Belgium have also lost only twice -- 3-0 against Argentina and 4-0 against India -- and their biggest win was a 6-2 drubbing of Japan. They also beat Pakistan 2-1.

"Belgium have proven themselves to be a stubborn team but my players have learnt from playing against other equally stubborn sides like Poland and Egypt. We will have to adapt fast, strike early and finish the match as winners inside 70 minutes," said Rajan.

Double target for Kiwis

NEW ZEALAND will be looking to shoot down two targets when they take on the Netherlands in the Junior World Cup hockey semi-finals today -- to end their country's 33-year wait for a major title and repay the faith of the players' parents.

New Zealand's last major title was when they shocked the world to win the 1976 Montreal Olympics gold, which has since been followed by years of mediocrity.

Their appearance in the Junior World Cup semi-finals, already a pleasant surprise, has been made all the more impressive by the fact that the players -- thanks to the parents -- paid their own way to compete.

Each player had to fork out NZ$4,000 (about RM8,800) and there were no extended periods of centralised training and friendly matches.

"Yes, parents paid the way and the boys have clicked well even though we did not have time to train back home.
"I don't want to dwell on that, as we are here to enjoy hockey," said coach Peter Miskimmin in Singapore yesterday.

The New Zealand Hockey Federation, however, did congratulate the team when they made the semi-finals.

"No, they never said anything about reimbursing the boys. However, it is not a priority as we still have two matches to play," said Miskimmin.

This is enough to get the neutrals rooting for New Zealand but they know the Netherlands, despite also not having won the Junior World Cup , will be tough opposition.

The Dutch are a force at the senior level and with the World Cup next year, players will be looking to prove their worth to the selectors.

Dutch coach Paul van Ass tried to downplay suggestions that his side are the favourites to advance.

"The Dutch have a problem -- we have been favourites all our lives (in junior hockey) but have never won a single title."

Van Ass said he, too, did not have the luxury of sound preparation.

"It has been a difficult tournament for us as I didn't have enough time to train the players as they had examinations and then the European Hockey League (EHL).

"Even though we beat Singapore 8-0 in the opening match, I wasn't happy as we did not have a solid structure.

"Credit, however, must be given to the players as they have improved and we are now in the hunt for a medal," said van Ass.

If the New Zealand-Netherlands tie is between teams who have never won the title before, the Germany-Australia semi-final is between former champions.

Germany won the title in 1982, 1985, 1989 and 1993 while Australia were champions in 1997 and runners-up in 2005.

Whatever happens, German coach Uli Forstner -- who has been at the helm since the 2001 Junior World Cup, will retire.

"We have reached this far and the players want to go the full distance and win the trophy. However, I would like to announce that whatever happens, I am calling it a day as far as coaching is concerned," said Forstner.

The German also lamented the lack of preparation and this spells good news for Australia, easily the best prepared team in the tournament.

And with New Zealand looking to prove a point, it could well mean an Oceania final come Sunday.

Semis and classification fixtures

THURSDAY: REST DAY.

FRIDAY: Semi-finals: Australia v Germany (8pm, Johor), Netherlands v New Zealand (8pm, Singapore); Fifth-Sixth: Argentina v Pakistan (5.30pm, Singapore); Seventh-Eigtht: Spain v South Korea (5,30pm, Johor); 15th-16th: England v South Africa (5pm, Singapore).

SATURDAY: Nine-10th: India v Poland (8pm, Johor); 11th-12th: Malaysia v Belgium (5.30pm, Johor); 13th-14th: Japan v Egypt (5pm, Singapore); 17th-18th: Russia v Chile (8pm, Singapore).

RESULTS 17/06/09

RESULTS -- Group E: Spain 1 Argentina 4, Netherlands 1 Germany 1; Group F: South Korea 1 Pakistan 5, Australia 2 New Zealand 0; Group G: Belgium 6 Japan 2, India 9 England 0; Group H: Malaysia 2 Egypt 2, South Africa 4 Poland 5; Group I: USA 1 Chile 2, Singapore 3 Russia 4.

THURSDAY: REST DAY.


STANDINGS:

MEDAL ROUND

(1st to 8th Placing)

GROUP E
P W D L F A Pts
Holland 3 2 1 0 7 2 7
Germany 3 2 1 0 9 5 7
Argentina 3 1 0 2 6 7 3
Spain 3 0 0 3 4 12 0

GROUP F
P W D L F A Pts
Australia 3 3 0 0 11 2 9
New Zealand 3 1 1 1 7 7 4
Pakistan 3 1 0 2 8 11 3
South Korea 3 0 1 2 5 11 1


(9th to 16th Placing)


GROUP G
P W D L F A Pts
India 3 3 0 0 20 2 9
Belgium 3 2 0 1 8 6 6
Japan 3 1 0 2 6 14 3
England 3 0 0 3 1 13 0

GROUP H
P W D L F A Pts
Poland 3 2 1 0 8 6 7
Malaysia 3 1 1 1 6 6 4
Egypt 3 0 3 0 5 5 3
South Africa 3 0 1 2 7 10 1


(17th to 20th Placing)

GROUP I
P W D L F A Pts
Russia 3 2 0 1 11 9 6
Chile 3 2 0 1 9 8 6
USA 3 2 0 1 8 7 6
Singapore 3 0 0 3 8 12 0

The Terry Walsh story

By S.S. Dhaliwal
www.ssdhaliwal.blogspot.com

Terry Walsh was a terror on the pitch during his days when playing for Australia. Having coached over the last two decades, Walsh is in a position to provide insights on the state of hockey at present. I caught up with Walsh during his stay in Johor Bahru for the Junior World Cup.

Question: Having seen some of the matches, what is your opinion on the quality of play in the JWC?

Terry Walsh: Due to the 2 venue format I have not seen all the teams play but as expected there is a significant variation in the level of play teams are exhibiting. For me the cultural variations exhibited by teams is more pronounced at the U/21 age group level than at senior level. The top level teams are producing performance levels which are impressive.

Question: Do you agree on the increased number of teams and the format of play?

Terry Walsh: There is no doubt that the overall growth of the game improves with 20 teams. However the complexities involved would seem to increase with 2 separate venues, naturally. The exposure for the teams outside the top 8 is a key issue for the development of our game globally. As we move forward the ability to see how a 2 pitch venue can handle this number of teams, or even more, is interesting to contemplate. Obviously the format for this tournament was driven significantly by climate parameters.

Question: The autoplay rule is to help speed up play, so does it really help?

Terry Walsh: This rule requires umpires to have a significant feel for the game as interpretation of appropriate usage is diverse. The physiological implications of this rule will gradually unfold but my sense is that this will become a key tactic in creating major tempo changes in matches. Ultimately this could lead us beyond the present physiological preparations for a tournament as teams endeavour to take a further advantage in the physiological edge. It is clearly an addition to the power options available to teams.

Question: What rule changes will you suggest to make the sport more spectator friendly?

Terry Walsh: Playing the ball above the shoulder is confounding. Why not permit danger to be the key factor in the receiving or playing of high balls? Conjecture as to the ball being above shoulder height at the point of reception in field play compared to legally saving a high ball from a goal shot seems unnecessarily confusing. My view is that our rules have moved away from black and white – indeed many are extremely ‘grey’. Creating ambiguity is confusing not just to spectators but also to players and I sense also for the umpires.
For the very top level I think we need to have a semi professional circuit of umpires.

Question: Having coached in Malaysia, and having kept abreast with its developments, where would you place Malaysian hockey 15 years after you left?

Terry Walsh: My sense is that Malaysia is now further from the top level of International performance. This is not enhanced with a disjointed approach to development. Quite frankly there needs some very tough administrative decisions made if there is to be success. There is a lot to be said for planning and implementing effective processes...but it won’t happen overnight. One wonders where the coaching development programs implemented in the early 90’s are today.

Question: Who do you pick to win the JWC or your pick for the last four?

Terry Walsh: Somehow I sense the New Zealand group will make it through. In the end I think they will join Holland , Australia and Germany. From there my reading of it would be that Australia’s exhibited power will be difficult to maintain in the end against Holland. Having said that the finals will bring something special. One thing is for sure, it will be very tight.

Question: What is your role in Fieldhockey USA?

Terry Walsh: My role is ‘USAFH Technical Director of High Performance’. My responsibilities are primarily to the direction and guidance of the International Programs at senior, junior and development level for both the women’s and men’s programs. USA hosts the Junior World Cup for Women in Boston during August this year while our senior National Teams vie for positions at the World Cups next year. We are pleased with our progress but the road in front of us is a very long one. However I see that USA can be a major contributor in the International scene, especially in the women’s program. We have plenty of numbers on the women’s side but it is clear our numbers must build on the men’s side as we only really have less than 30 players to choose from for the present Junior World Cup challenge.

Question: Will you consider a coaching position if approached for the 2012 Olympics?

Terry Walsh: My focus is now not in coaching a specific National Team. My role with USAFH is all encompassing and extremely challenging. Assisting to bring USAFH to the Olympic arena as a regular and consistent competitor in both the Women’s and Men’s programs is challenging and somewhat daunting. Our progression to date has been encouraging. I do understand this is a long term project but 2016 should see us be able to realistically assess our development. But in the end this project will continue to evolve.

HAPPYIER DAYS

MALAYSIA HOLD EUROPEAN CHAMPIONS SPAIN IN THE EARLY ROUND, with player No 10, Faizal Shaari, the hero...Malaysia has only lost 2-0 to South Africa and 2-1 to Poland so far, but still, will be playing in the 11th-12th classification match.

MHF must go clubbing

COACH S. Chandran, with 20 years standing in the sport to back him, has called for the Malaysian Hockey Federation (MHF) to fast forward its plans to revive the club structure before an obituary is written for hockey.

MHF president Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah had, immediately after being elected, said in his speech that clubs would receive more attention, with even premises and hockey pitches thrown in, but not much has moved.

Chandran and Joseph de Silva pioneered the formation of Old La Sallian Association of Klang (OLAK) which went on to produce national players Amin Rahim, Redzuan Ponirin, Syayrim Uda Karim and Shaiful Azli.

And Electrical Switchgears Automation (ESA), under K. Kali Kavandan nurtured national players Jiwa Mohan, Jivan Mohan, Chua Boon Huat, K. Keevan Raj and K. Logan Raj.

And these are some of the players who took Malaysia into the final of the 1998 Kuala Lumpur Commonwealth Games.
While Olak are still in the fray but stuggling with funding, ESA folded up a long time ago, and with it, the talent support pool also dried up.

Chandran watched the Malaysia-South Africa match at the Taman Daya Stadium on Monday and is of the opinion that our best juniors are far behind the rest, even among Asian teams.

"I feel that after Bandar Penawar and Bukit Jalil Sports Schools were formed, hockey at club and state levels took a severe beating. Clubs were the backbone and Malaysia have the distinction of finishing fourth twice in the Junior World Cup, but in the last 12 years, we have been among the also-rans."

Malaysia were 12th in 2001 in Hobart, 10th in 2005 in Rotterdam, and ninth in Johor Baru.

"BJSS and BPSS have also killed off interest in the Junior Hockey League as clubs and states are reluctant to take part as they know that the sports schools will dominate as they have the best in the country with them," added Chandran.

"That is why I urge the Education Ministry to also have a re-look into its policy of having a sports school in every state. The idea was mooted many times, but has yet to take off. Only when every state has a sports school would the competition be among peers, and sport in the country will reach the desired level.

"Right now, I do not see a bright future for this present batch of juniors whose failures have always been blamed on coaches.

"Many coaches were removed before K. Rajan took over and now there is talk that even Rajan would be removed after the Junior World Cup as, the word is, MHF is keen to hire a foreign coach.

"The MHF must learn to trust its own coaches, who have been working with poor material to start with, but produced better results than the string of foreign coaches who have trained our players with little success," said Chandran.

And in summing up, he said: "The Education Ministry, states, and National Sports Council are working in different directions to nurture grassroots hockey. That is why the situation is so messy, and much money being spent with no results to show. All three bodies need to sit down with the MHF and work as a team, if not, we will soon be number seven in Asia, behind Singapore."

Goals order of the day

MALAYSIA will not only have to beat Egypt today but also go for goals if they want to play in the 9th-10th classification in the Junior World Cup.

On paper, Malaysia look the better side, but on the field, coach K. Rajan's team have been on a roller-coaster ride, and played well below their capabilities in the second round.

"They hit a bad patch against Poland, and I have a free day to work on them before playing Egypt. The African side have shown some progress, and even held Poland to a 1-1 draw," said Rajan.

"Which means we can't take them lightly, and will have to pile-up early goals to kill the match."

And even if Malaysia produce a stunning result against Egypt, they will have to rely on South Africa beating Poland, failing which, they will play in the 11th-12th bracket.
FIXTURES -- TODAY: Group E: Spain v Argentina (5.30pm, Johor), Netherlands v Germany (5.30pm, Singapore); Group F: South Korea v Pakistan (7.30pm, Johor), Australia v New Zealand (Singapore, 7.30pm); Group G: Belgium v Japan (5pm, Johor), India v England (5pm, Singapore); Group H: Malaysia v Egypt (9pm, Johor), South Africa v Poland (8.30am, Singapore); Group I: USA v Chile (7pm, Johor), Singapore v Russia (7pm, Singapore).

TOMORROW: Rest day.

Malaysia on waiting list to host 2010 World Cup

MALAYSIAN Hockey Federation (MHF) president Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah yesterday confirmed that the International Hockey Federation (FIH) has placed Malaysia on standby to host the 2010 senior World Cup, as India is still struggling to get its federation back on its feet.

The FIH had given India an ultimatum to merge its men's and women's federations, and Hockey India was formed, but there are still teething problems to sort out.

"Yes, the FIH has placed Malaysia on standby to host the senior World Cup next year if India is unable to host it. I would like to make it clear that we are not out to steal the show from India, but if the FIH feel India can't host it, then Malaysia is ready to take over," said Tengku Abdullah after watching Malaysia beat South Africa 3-1 on Monday.

And Johor Baru has also been earmarked as a possible venue.

FIH president Leandro Negre will be in Johor to watch the final of the Junior World Cup, and he will be taken on a tour of the facilities at the Taman Daya Stadium.
"When Negre comes, we will show him around and I am sure he will agree that the Taman Daya Stadium can host the senior tournament as well. No decision has yet been made, and maybe Negre will shed some light when he arrives," added Tengku Abdullah.

It was reported in the Indian media that the Indian Hockey Federation and the newly-formed Hockey India decided to bury the hatchet and merge the men's and women's federations into Hockey India's fold on Sunday.

It is said that the two parties formed a six-member sub-committee to work out the merger within 45 days.

Holland, Australia, Germany in semis

RESULTS -- Group E: Argentina 1 Netherlands 3, Spain 3 Germany 5; Group F: New Zealand 4 Pakistan 2, Australia 3 South Korea 1; Group G: England 1 Japan 2, India 4 Belgium 0; Group H: Malaysia 3 South Africa 1, Poland 1 Egypt 1.

STANDINGS:

MEDAL ROUND

(1st to 8th Placing)

GROUP E
P W D L F A Pts
Holland 2 2 0 0 6 1 6
Germany 2 2 0 0 8 4 6
Argentina 2 0 0 2 2 6 0
Spain 2 0 0 2 3 8 0

GROUP F
P W D L F A Pts
Australia 2 2 0 0 9 2 6
New Zealand 2 1 1 0 7 5 4
South Korea 2 0 1 1 4 6 1
Pakistan 2 0 0 2 3 10 0

(9th to 16th Placing)


GROUP G
P W D L F A Pts
India 2 2 0 0 11 2 6
Belgium 2 1 0 1 6 0 3
England 2 0 0 2 1 4 0
Japan 2 1 0 1 4 8 3


GROUP H
P W D L F A Pts
Poland 2 1 1 0 3 2 4
Malaysia 2 1 0 1 4 3 3
Egypt 2 0 2 0 3 3 2
South Africa 2 0 1 1 3 5 1




(17th to 20th Placing)

GROUP I
P W D L F A Pts
Chile 1 1 0 0 5 3 3
USA 1 1 0 0 4 3 3
Russia 1 0 0 1 3 4 0
Singapore 1 0 0 1 3 5 0

Malaysia play worst match

14/06/09

RESULTS -- Group E: Netherlands 3 Spain 0, Germany 3 Argentina 1; Group F: South Korea 3 New Zealand 3, Pakistan 1 Australia 6; Group G: Belgium 2 England 0, India 7 Japan 2; Group H: Egypt 2 South Africa 2, Malaysia 1 Poland 2; Group I: USA 4 Russia 3, Singapore 3 Chile 5.

STANDINGS:

MEDAL ROUND

(1st to 8th Placing)

GROUP E
P W D L F A Pts
Holland 1 1 0 0 3 0 3
Germany 1 1 0 0 3 1 3
Argentina 1 0 0 1 1 3 0
Spain 1 0 0 1 0 3 0

GROUP F
P W D L F A Pts
Australia 1 1 0 0 6 1 3
South Korea 1 0 1 0 3 3 1
New Zealand 1 0 1 0 3 3 1
Pakistan 1 0 0 1 1 6 0

(9th to 16th Placing)


GROUP G
P W D L F A Pts
India 1 1 0 0 7 2 3
Belgium 1 1 0 0 2 0 3
England 1 0 0 1 0 2 0
Japan 1 1 0 0 2 7 0


GROUP H
P W D L F A Pts
Poland 1 1 0 0 2 1 3
Egypt 1 0 1 0 2 2 1
South Africa 1 0 1 0 2 2 1
Malaysia 1 0 0 1 1 2 0



(17th to 20th Placing)

GROUP I
P W D L F A Pts
Chile 1 1 0 0 5 3 3
USA 1 1 0 0 4 3 3
Russia 1 0 0 1 3 4 0
Singapore 1 0 0 1 3 5 0

Team, Rajan needs backing

THE Malaysian juniors were a bunch of losers eight months ago but blossomed into a fighting outfit and will be remembered most for grabbing the Spanish bull by the horns in the Junior World Cup. They started with a 1-0 win over England, lost 2-0 to South Korea, beat United States 5-2, and held European champions Spain 3-3 in a heart-stopper on Friday.

Solidly backed by a crowd of 6,000 in each match, it is a pity that Malaysia, despite having lost only one match, will be playing in the ninth-16th bracket in Group H with South Africa, Egypt and Poland.



For the record, Malaysia were in the same boat four years ago in Rotterdam, and lost the ninth-10th placing match against England.
"The phrase 'played their best game' does not hold water anymore, as my team failed to advance to the medal round. I am sad, but lets face reality -- the boys are better off now than eight months ago," said Malaysian coach K. Rajan.

How true, as even a month ago when they played in a four-nation, the boys were on the receiving end.

Rajan sees a good future in this set of players, but feels they need to be kept as a group, and monitored to bring the best out of them.

"There are a few players who will break into the senior ranks, but not many, as there is not much individual talent, but they play well as a team."

Malaysia have been placed in an easier classification group, and going by current form, should be able to top the group easily and then strive to finish ninth among 20 teams, which is not too bad considering the material Rajan had to work his magic.

Rajan, a Tenaga Nasional employee, will end his contract with the juniors in October, after which he will go back to his club side.

However, many feel that it would be a waste of talent, and experience, if Rajan is sent back to the shadows.

"He has proven himself by turning around a bunch of losers into an exciting outfit in eight months, and I feel he should be given the task of training our national Under-16 squad right after the Junior World Cup ends, that will give him four years to train the boys into winners for the next World Cup," said a senior MHF official who declined to be named, but who will bring the matter up with the coaching committee.

Lessons from Argentina

Argentina’s Santiago Miguel Montelli (left) and Martin Gabriel Gebhardt. — Pic: HAIRUL ANUAR ABD RAHIM

DEFENDING champions Argentina have placed themselves in contention to defend their title, and have an interesting story to tell the Malaysian Hockey Federation (MHF) on how hockey should be developed in the country.

After they beat Egypt 3-1 in their last Group A match, coach Pablo Lombi brought along two of his players, and said: "Please interview these two boys, instead of me today."

He brought along skipper Martin Gabriel Gebhardt, 20, and Santiago Miguel Montelli, 21, to the press room.

The first question: So when did you guys start playing hockey?

And the answer was identical: "We started playing hockey when we were four years old, and are enjoying every moment of it."
Four years old?: "Yes, ever since I can remember, I have had a hockey stick in my hand when it is time to play, be it the playground or the hockey pitch," said Martin.

"My father played hockey at club level, and I tagged along, and he is the reason why I am playing in a World Cup today," said Santiago. Martin also attributed his father as his pillar.

Why hockey and not football?: "Football is nice to play, but it is difficult to become a footballer in Argentina, as they take you away from the age of 10 to 17 and place you in a camp where you train and play 365 days a year. It becomes boring as you lose contact with your friends, and growing up is no longer fun, as you can't do what other teenagers do," said Martin.

So the three lessons from these two boys are -- start as a toddler, parents must play a bigger role, and don't make hockey into a boring task.

The fourth lesson is play abroad at a young age, as Santiago plays in Belgium and Martin in Germany.

"In a way, my stint in Belgium opened many doors to improve my game and make me independent. I played for one season, and would love to go there again if given a chance," said Santiago.



In the 2005 Junior World Cup in Rotterdam, Netherlands, nobody gave any thought about Argentina when they arrived. They were called lucky when they advanced to the medal round but they proved everyone wrong by lifting the trophy.

And four years later, they still have many talented players to take them into the medal round, and the worst they can finish is number eight among 20 teams.

Malaysia can only finish, at the best, ninth and the MHF should look at the Argentina model first to get the grassroots moving.

SECOND RIUND GROUPING

SECOND ROUND GROUPING

GROUPINGS – MEDAL ROUND

(1st to 8th Placing)

GROUP E
Argentina
Holland
Germany
Spain

GROUP F
Australia
South Korea
Pakistan
New Zealand

(9th to 16th Placing)

GROUP G
Belgium
India
Japan
England

GROUP H
South Africa
Malaysia
Egypt
Poland

(17th to 20th Placing)

GROUP I
Russia
Chile
USA
Singapore

FINAL STANDINGS

RESULTS: Group A: Egypt 1 Argentina 3, Belgium 2 Pakistan 1; Group B: Australia 2 South Africa 0, Germany 3 Japan 1; Group C: South Korea 2 England 2, Spain 3 Malaysia 3; Group D: Netherlands 2 New Zealand 2, India 4 Poland 2.

FINAL STANDINGS 11/06/09

NOTE: The top-two teams in each group advance to the medal round.

Group A
P W D L F A Pts
Argentina 4 3 0 1 17 7 9
Pakistan 4 3 0 1 15 6 9
Belgium 4 3 0 1 13 6 9
Egypt 4 1 0 3 5 11 3
Russia 4 0 0 4 6 25 0


Group B
P W D L F A Pts
Australia 4 3 1 0 13 2 10
Germany 4 3 1 0 13 2 10
South Africa 4 1 1 2 7 8 4
Japan 4 1 1 2 6 11 4
Chile 4 0 0 4 2 18 0


Group C
P W D L F A Pts
South Korea 4 3 1 0 12 2 10
Spain 4 2 1 1 14 5 7
Malaysia 4 2 1 1 9 7 7
England 4 1 1 2 7 5 4
US 4 0 0 4 2 25 0



Group D
P W D L F A Pts
Netherlands 4 3 1 0 20 6 10
New Zealand 4 2 2 0 15 6 8
India 4 2 1 1 18 7 7
Poland 4 1 0 3 7 20 3
Singapore 4 0 0 4 2 23 0

Argentina in medal round

DEFENDING champions Argentina advanced into the medal round from Group A of the Junior World Cup when they beat Egypt 3-1 at the Taman Daya Stadium in Johor Baru yesterday.

But it was not an easy win, as they went into the break tied 1-1 and Egypt were pressing hard.

A penalty stroke in the second half gave Argentina a life-line, and they went on to win the match.

The Argentine scorers yesterday were Santiago Miguel (21st, 39th) and Leandro Tolini (49th). Houssam Ghabran scored for Egypt in the 27th minute.

Also in Group A, Pakistan qualified for the medal round even though they lost 2-1 to Belgium. Pakistan had a better goals average, and finished second to Argentina in the g roup.

In Group C, even though South Korea had already qualified for the medal round, they still played their hearts out and held England to a 2-2 draw to remain unbeaten.

Marc Edwards (sixth) and David Beckett (56th) scored for England while Kang Moon Kweon (52nd) and Lee Dong Hyun (63rd) scored for South Korea.

And in Group D, New Zealand and Netherlands played to a 2-2 draw to advance to the medal round, shutting the door on India who were reduced to playing in the classifications.

Malaysia's best not good enough

Malaysia’s Faizal Saari (right) is tackled by Spain’s Xavier Lleonart in their Junior World Cup Group C match in Johor yesterday. The match ended 3-3. — Pic: HAIRUL ANUAR ABD RAHIM

MALAYSIA were 3-1 down, then went on to draw 3-3 with European Champions Spain in Group C, but it was not good enough to take them to the medal round of the Junior World Cup.
Backed by a packed stadium, Malaysia were guilty of making one silly mistake which led to the equaliser, while the umpire from Belgium Vincent Loos made a big blunder which made it 2-1 in favour of Spain.
Malaysia started on a confident note, and received the tonic that they needed in the ninth minute itself, which send the 6,000-odd crown into wild celebrations.
Spain were deep inside the Malaysian semi-circle, and a back-stick clearance by skipper Khairul Anuar found Izwan Firdus who made a darting run and passed the ball to Faizal Shaari.
Faizal scored his fouth goal of the tournament with a reverse-stick shot, a Spanish trademark, to beat goalkeeper Francesc Mata and Malaysia were in the lead.
But even before the celebrations died down, Malaysia were in the receiving end as they made two mistakes which allowed Spain to equalise, and then take the lead.
Roc Oliva scored the equaliser in the 20th minute and two minutes later, Javier Garcia made it 2-1. Malaysia protested the second goal, claiming the ball had gone out of play, but the umpire stood firm and it became an uphill batle as the half-time hooter blew.
But Malaysia were not ready to give up, and 30 seconds into the second half, they won their first penalty corner of the match, but Faizal's high flick was palmed away by the goalkeeper.
Malaysia threw everything at the Spaniards, but were unlucky to conceede their third goal in the 49th minute when Xavier Lleonart scored off a penalty corner.
Being 3-1 down would have cracked any junior team, but the boys in yellow were in no mood to give up, and Harvinder Singh scored for Malaysia in the 54th minute, and the match turned into a pulsating affair.
The boys were rewarded for their persistence in the 60th minute, Mohamed Noor Khairul equalised with a deft touch, and the fans went wild in celebrations,
However, the Spaniards held onto the draw, and advanced to the madal round, as the Malaysian players received a standing ovation from their fans.