Sunday, June 30, 2013
Paul Revington's take...
"To score six goals against South Africa is fantastic, but in the same breath, letting in four goal is really frustrating," said Malaysian coach Paul Revington.
Malaysia went on a South African Tour recently and played four friendlies: "It certainly helped a lot in preparing for this match and I am happy that the players learnt from the Tour for this crucial win," said Revington.
Malaysia beat South Africa 6-4
MALAYSIA lived dangerously but still managed to beat South Africa 6-4 in Group B of the World Hockey League Semi-finals at the Taman Daya Stadium in Johor Baru yesterday.
Cheered on by a capacity crowd of 3,500, with drums and constant singing, Paul Revington's men showed that they could upset the formbook when they collected full points in a nerve-wrecking match.
Malaysia played just like they did in the 4-4 draw against Pakistan when they went for early goals against South Africa and were rewarded for their tireless efforts.
Upfront, Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin and Faizal Saari tore the South African defense with ease and won the first penalty corner in the fourth minute.
Cheered on by a capacity crowd, Faizal drove the ball at the back of the net for the lead.
And a wave of attacks after that saw Chua Boon Huat win the third penalty corner, and this time Razie Rahim perfected the drag flick for a 2-0 lead in the 15th minute.
However, the South Africans were allowed back into the game as Malaysia kept giving away penalty corners, and were punished in the 26th minute.
Jethro Eustice made it count, and Malaysia were in danger of losing the script again, as they trooped into the dressing room with a one-goal advantage.
The Africans came charging out fully recharged after the breather, and drew level with a quick freak goal in the 37th minute.
Wade Paton picked up a loose ball at the top of the semi-circle, and sent in a thundering shot which grazed goalkeeper S. Kumar's shoulders and went sailing in for the equaliser.
Malaysia managed to compose their nerves after that, and started playing their normal game again and were rewarded with the fourth penalty corner in the 46th minute.
And Razie gave Malaysia the lead again by scoring his fourth goal of the tournament.
Faizal Saari then gave the cheering crowd reason to celebrate again as he darted a good 20 meters before slamming in the fourth goal in the 54th minute.
However, even before the celebrations could end, South Africa scored their third goal off a field attempt by Miguel da Garca in the 56th minute.
But not to be outdone by his brother Faizal, Fitri Saari then got into the act with a super reverse stick from an acute angle which went crashing into the net for a 5-3 lead in the 58th minute.
And the gates opened up as Izwan Firdaus was manhandled in the semi-cirlce just as he was about to score and Malaysia were awarded a penalty stroke but Razie Rahim failed to convert.
But Marhan Jalil made sure victory for Malaysia with a field attempt in the 63rd minute.
Timothy Drummond scored in the 69th minute for South Africa for a final tally of 6-4.
GROUP A
P W D L F A Pts
ARGENTINA 2 1 1 0 8 2 4
GERMANY 2 1 1 0 6 1 4
S KOREA 2 0 1 1 3 8 1
JAPAN 2 0 1 1 4 10 1
GROUP B
P W D L F A Pts
MALAYSIA 2 1 1 0 10 8 4
PAKISTAN 2 0 2 0 6 6 2
ENGLAND 2 0 2 0 5 5 2
S AFRICA 2 0 1 1 7 9 1
RESULTS: Group A: Argentina 7 Japan 1, Korea 0 Germany 5.
Group B: Pakistan 2 England 2, South Africa 4 Malaysia 6.
TODAY: REST DAY
TOMORROW: Group A: Germany v Japan (3pm), Argentina v Korea (5pm).
Group B: England v Malaysia (7pm), South Africa v Pakistan (9pm).
Cheered on by a capacity crowd of 3,500, with drums and constant singing, Paul Revington's men showed that they could upset the formbook when they collected full points in a nerve-wrecking match.
Malaysia played just like they did in the 4-4 draw against Pakistan when they went for early goals against South Africa and were rewarded for their tireless efforts.
Upfront, Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin and Faizal Saari tore the South African defense with ease and won the first penalty corner in the fourth minute.
Cheered on by a capacity crowd, Faizal drove the ball at the back of the net for the lead.
And a wave of attacks after that saw Chua Boon Huat win the third penalty corner, and this time Razie Rahim perfected the drag flick for a 2-0 lead in the 15th minute.
However, the South Africans were allowed back into the game as Malaysia kept giving away penalty corners, and were punished in the 26th minute.
Jethro Eustice made it count, and Malaysia were in danger of losing the script again, as they trooped into the dressing room with a one-goal advantage.
The Africans came charging out fully recharged after the breather, and drew level with a quick freak goal in the 37th minute.
Wade Paton picked up a loose ball at the top of the semi-circle, and sent in a thundering shot which grazed goalkeeper S. Kumar's shoulders and went sailing in for the equaliser.
Malaysia managed to compose their nerves after that, and started playing their normal game again and were rewarded with the fourth penalty corner in the 46th minute.
And Razie gave Malaysia the lead again by scoring his fourth goal of the tournament.
Faizal Saari then gave the cheering crowd reason to celebrate again as he darted a good 20 meters before slamming in the fourth goal in the 54th minute.
However, even before the celebrations could end, South Africa scored their third goal off a field attempt by Miguel da Garca in the 56th minute.
But not to be outdone by his brother Faizal, Fitri Saari then got into the act with a super reverse stick from an acute angle which went crashing into the net for a 5-3 lead in the 58th minute.
And the gates opened up as Izwan Firdaus was manhandled in the semi-cirlce just as he was about to score and Malaysia were awarded a penalty stroke but Razie Rahim failed to convert.
But Marhan Jalil made sure victory for Malaysia with a field attempt in the 63rd minute.
Timothy Drummond scored in the 69th minute for South Africa for a final tally of 6-4.
GROUP A
P W D L F A Pts
ARGENTINA 2 1 1 0 8 2 4
GERMANY 2 1 1 0 6 1 4
S KOREA 2 0 1 1 3 8 1
JAPAN 2 0 1 1 4 10 1
GROUP B
P W D L F A Pts
MALAYSIA 2 1 1 0 10 8 4
PAKISTAN 2 0 2 0 6 6 2
ENGLAND 2 0 2 0 5 5 2
S AFRICA 2 0 1 1 7 9 1
RESULTS: Group A: Argentina 7 Japan 1, Korea 0 Germany 5.
Group B: Pakistan 2 England 2, South Africa 4 Malaysia 6.
TODAY: REST DAY
TOMORROW: Group A: Germany v Japan (3pm), Argentina v Korea (5pm).
Group B: England v Malaysia (7pm), South Africa v Pakistan (9pm).
Germans hammer Korea 5-0
WORLD No 1 Germany needed an own goal to spur them to beat South Korea 5-0 in Group A of the World League Semi-finals at the Taman Daya Stadium in Johor Baru yesterday.
It was a drab start, as South Korea took the game to Germany who looked like they were contended with soaking in the pressure for the first 15 minutes of the game.
The only goalmouth action was a penalty corner attempt by South Korea in the sixth minute, but it was well palmed away by goalkeeper Nicolas Jacobi.
And after 25 minutes of play, much of which centred around the midfield area, South Korea and Germany failed to break the deadlock, as defenders from both sides were rock-steady.
The first 35 minutes were a disappointing encounter as the World No 1 looked a jaded side as they trooped into the dressing room.
And when the match resumed, an own goal by South Korea gave Germany the lead in the 38th minute.
What was supposed to be a reverse-stick cross from Oliver Korn, was turned into a goal when Korea's Nam Hyun Woo connected home.
The own-goal spurred the Germans to win their first penalty corner of the match in the 40th minute, and Moritz Furste made it count with a top-net drag.
Germany suddenly found their gait, and placed South Korea into deeper misery in the 47th minute when Christopher Zeller's penalty corner attempt almost tore the netting for a 3-0 lead.
And the hammering was completed when Christopher Ruhr sent in a reverse-stick attempt in the 67th minute, and then scored his brace in the 70th minute for a final 5-0 drubbing.
Germany, after Monday's rest day, play Japan and could end up at the top of the Group A standings.
It was a drab start, as South Korea took the game to Germany who looked like they were contended with soaking in the pressure for the first 15 minutes of the game.
The only goalmouth action was a penalty corner attempt by South Korea in the sixth minute, but it was well palmed away by goalkeeper Nicolas Jacobi.
And after 25 minutes of play, much of which centred around the midfield area, South Korea and Germany failed to break the deadlock, as defenders from both sides were rock-steady.
The first 35 minutes were a disappointing encounter as the World No 1 looked a jaded side as they trooped into the dressing room.
And when the match resumed, an own goal by South Korea gave Germany the lead in the 38th minute.
What was supposed to be a reverse-stick cross from Oliver Korn, was turned into a goal when Korea's Nam Hyun Woo connected home.
The own-goal spurred the Germans to win their first penalty corner of the match in the 40th minute, and Moritz Furste made it count with a top-net drag.
Germany suddenly found their gait, and placed South Korea into deeper misery in the 47th minute when Christopher Zeller's penalty corner attempt almost tore the netting for a 3-0 lead.
And the hammering was completed when Christopher Ruhr sent in a reverse-stick attempt in the 67th minute, and then scored his brace in the 70th minute for a final 5-0 drubbing.
Germany, after Monday's rest day, play Japan and could end up at the top of the Group A standings.
Argentina 7 Japan 1
Argentina move to the top of Pool A thanks to a comprehensive win over Japan. Next up, KOR v GER.
Saturday, June 29, 2013
England 3 South Africa 3
There were no winners in the opening day of the World League Semifinals in Johor Baru as England and South Africa also ended their match with a 3-3 draw.
Germany and Argentina drew 1-1 in the opening match, while the all Asian affair saw South Korea and Japan sharing the spoils with 3-3 draw.
The third match offered eight goals as Malaysia were held by Pakistan 4-4.
South Africa made a perfect start to their World League Semifinals campaign when Julian Hykes picked up a brace in the 6th and 9th minute respectively.
The goals rocked the second highest ranked team in the tournament, but they were soon back on steady grounds and begun to show some positive attacking play.
England did manage to reduce the deficit, but it was courtesy of an own goal which came in the 13th minute from the stick of Rhett Halkett.
Both teams had their own share of possession but failed to make the best of their chance as the score stood at half time.
The second half was off to the same tempo as it left of in the first with both side looking impressive on the ball but continued to struggle in finding the breakthrough.
However, the world No 4 side found the telling equalizer in the 56th minute when Mark Gleghorne set up Ben Arnold for the simplest of tap in.
The final five minutes saw South Africa restoring their lead in the 65 minute through Jonathan Robinson, but the lead was cancel out once again when Richard Smith found the net in the 70th to share the spoils.
Germany and Argentina drew 1-1 in the opening match, while the all Asian affair saw South Korea and Japan sharing the spoils with 3-3 draw.
The third match offered eight goals as Malaysia were held by Pakistan 4-4.
South Africa made a perfect start to their World League Semifinals campaign when Julian Hykes picked up a brace in the 6th and 9th minute respectively.
The goals rocked the second highest ranked team in the tournament, but they were soon back on steady grounds and begun to show some positive attacking play.
England did manage to reduce the deficit, but it was courtesy of an own goal which came in the 13th minute from the stick of Rhett Halkett.
Both teams had their own share of possession but failed to make the best of their chance as the score stood at half time.
The second half was off to the same tempo as it left of in the first with both side looking impressive on the ball but continued to struggle in finding the breakthrough.
However, the world No 4 side found the telling equalizer in the 56th minute when Mark Gleghorne set up Ben Arnold for the simplest of tap in.
The final five minutes saw South Africa restoring their lead in the 65 minute through Jonathan Robinson, but the lead was cancel out once again when Richard Smith found the net in the 70th to share the spoils.
Malaysia's Faizal Saari in action against Pakistan..
Individual play the cause..
PAUL REVINGTON
"I left a bunch of frustrated players in the dressing room just now, but I believe they will overcome the disappointment of this match and play much better against South Africa tomorrow (today)," was Malaysian coach Paul Revington's assessment of the match.
The main problem after taking a 3-0 lead was that individual play crept into the match.
"Yes, we played as a team for 35 minutes, but individual play crept in into the second half and that was pleasing to the gallery, but not to the scoreline.
"That is why we are ranked 13th in the world, and when I can make them play as a team for 70 minutes, we will surely move up the rankings," said Revington.
Pakistan coach Akhtar Rasool was pleased as punch: "Malaysia were lucky, as they scored early goals as by right, we had many more chances to seal the match but failed to win today (yesterday)."
"I left a bunch of frustrated players in the dressing room just now, but I believe they will overcome the disappointment of this match and play much better against South Africa tomorrow (today)," was Malaysian coach Paul Revington's assessment of the match.
The main problem after taking a 3-0 lead was that individual play crept into the match.
"Yes, we played as a team for 35 minutes, but individual play crept in into the second half and that was pleasing to the gallery, but not to the scoreline.
"That is why we are ranked 13th in the world, and when I can make them play as a team for 70 minutes, we will surely move up the rankings," said Revington.
Pakistan coach Akhtar Rasool was pleased as punch: "Malaysia were lucky, as they scored early goals as by right, we had many more chances to seal the match but failed to win today (yesterday)."
Malaysia 4 Pakistan 4
MALAYSIA crumbled after taking a 3-0 lead to draw 4-4 with Pakistan in the opening encounter of the World League Semi-finals at the Taman Daya Stadium in Johor Baru yesterday.
Draw was also the order of the day, as World No 1 Germany were held 1-1 by Argentina, while Japan drew 3-3 with South Korea.
For Malaysia, three early penalty corner goals were not good enough for three points, as Pakistan clawed back into the match.
Faizal Saari, who seems to play his best matches at the Taman Daya Stadium, won the first penalty corner for Malaysia in the third minute and Razie Rahim made it count.
And in the seventh minute, Faizal again won a penalty corner and Razie's sizzling flick beat goalkeeper Imran Shah yet again.
And in the 18th minute, off Malaysia's fourth penalty corner, Razie's flick was stopped by Imran, but pusher Marhan Jalil slammed it in back for a 3-0 lead.
Pakistan pulled one back in the 26th minute off their second penalty corner when Abdul Haseem Khan made it count.
And just after the restart Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin, who was in the shadows most of the first half, scored a super field goal in the 38th minute to make it 4-1.
However, Pakistan kept winning penalty corners and in the 42nd minute, Muhammad Tausiq finally perfected it and scored the second goal for his team.
And Pakistan kept pushing and were finally rewarded in the 56th minute with a penalty stroke which Shakeel Abbasi cooly tucked in past goalkeeper S. Kumar to narrow the gap to 3-4.
And a backstick tackle by Norhizzat Sumantri gave Pakistan their ninth penalty corner and Muhammad Imran made it 4-4 in the 61 minute.
GROUP A
P W D L F A Pts
JAPAN 1 0 1 0 3 3 1
S KOREA 1 0 1 0 3 3 1
GERMANY 1 0 1 0 1 1 1
ARGENTINA 1 0 1 0 1 1 1
GROUP B
P W D L F A Pts
MALAYSIA 1 0 1 0 4 4 1
PAKISTAN 1 0 1 0 4 4 1
ENGLAND 1 0 1 0 3 3 1
S AFRICA 1 0 1 0 3 3 1
RESULTS: Group A -- Germany 1 Argentina 1, South Korea 3 Japan 3.
Group B: Pakistan 4 Malaysia 4, England 3 South Africa 3.
TODAY: Group A: Argentina v Japan (3pm), Korea v Germany (5pm).
Group B: Pakistan v England (7pm), South Africa v Malaysia (9pm).
Draw was also the order of the day, as World No 1 Germany were held 1-1 by Argentina, while Japan drew 3-3 with South Korea.
For Malaysia, three early penalty corner goals were not good enough for three points, as Pakistan clawed back into the match.
Faizal Saari, who seems to play his best matches at the Taman Daya Stadium, won the first penalty corner for Malaysia in the third minute and Razie Rahim made it count.
And in the seventh minute, Faizal again won a penalty corner and Razie's sizzling flick beat goalkeeper Imran Shah yet again.
And in the 18th minute, off Malaysia's fourth penalty corner, Razie's flick was stopped by Imran, but pusher Marhan Jalil slammed it in back for a 3-0 lead.
Pakistan pulled one back in the 26th minute off their second penalty corner when Abdul Haseem Khan made it count.
And just after the restart Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin, who was in the shadows most of the first half, scored a super field goal in the 38th minute to make it 4-1.
However, Pakistan kept winning penalty corners and in the 42nd minute, Muhammad Tausiq finally perfected it and scored the second goal for his team.
And Pakistan kept pushing and were finally rewarded in the 56th minute with a penalty stroke which Shakeel Abbasi cooly tucked in past goalkeeper S. Kumar to narrow the gap to 3-4.
And a backstick tackle by Norhizzat Sumantri gave Pakistan their ninth penalty corner and Muhammad Imran made it 4-4 in the 61 minute.
GROUP A
P W D L F A Pts
JAPAN 1 0 1 0 3 3 1
S KOREA 1 0 1 0 3 3 1
GERMANY 1 0 1 0 1 1 1
ARGENTINA 1 0 1 0 1 1 1
GROUP B
P W D L F A Pts
MALAYSIA 1 0 1 0 4 4 1
PAKISTAN 1 0 1 0 4 4 1
ENGLAND 1 0 1 0 3 3 1
S AFRICA 1 0 1 0 3 3 1
RESULTS: Group A -- Germany 1 Argentina 1, South Korea 3 Japan 3.
Group B: Pakistan 4 Malaysia 4, England 3 South Africa 3.
TODAY: Group A: Argentina v Japan (3pm), Korea v Germany (5pm).
Group B: Pakistan v England (7pm), South Africa v Malaysia (9pm).
Japan 3 Korea 3
JAPAN came back from being 0-3 down to hold South Korea 3-3 in the World League semi-finals at Johor Baru.
Japan coach Kang Keong Wook was surprised with the comeback: "Im surprised, maybe my players wanted to show that they are no push-overs and played a very good match in the second half."
Kang, a Korean, has helped his country win silver medal in the Sydney 2000 Olympics.
Korean coach Shin Seok Kyo attributed the yo-yo performance to overconfidence.
"Halftime 3-0, and then we became overconfident and now will have to win against tougher opponents Germany and Argentina," said Shin.
Korea: Kim Seong Kyu (15th), Lee Nam Young (24th), Kang Moon Kweon (26th).
Japan: Kawakimi Kei (43rd), Tachibana Toshiro (57th), Yoshihara Heita (61st)
Japan coach Kang Keong Wook was surprised with the comeback: "Im surprised, maybe my players wanted to show that they are no push-overs and played a very good match in the second half."
Kang, a Korean, has helped his country win silver medal in the Sydney 2000 Olympics.
Korean coach Shin Seok Kyo attributed the yo-yo performance to overconfidence.
"Halftime 3-0, and then we became overconfident and now will have to win against tougher opponents Germany and Argentina," said Shin.
Korea: Kim Seong Kyu (15th), Lee Nam Young (24th), Kang Moon Kweon (26th).
Japan: Kawakimi Kei (43rd), Tachibana Toshiro (57th), Yoshihara Heita (61st)
Argies hold Germany 1-1..
World No 1 Germany were shocked 1-1 by Argentina in the opening World League Semi-finals match in Johor Baru.
The Germans scored off a Christopher Zeller penalty corner in the fifth minute, and Argentina replied also with a penalty corner in the 61st minute off a Gonzalo Peillat low drive.
German coach Markus Weise said it was not easy playing under sauna conditions (3pm start) but his Argentina counterpart Carlos Retegui begged to differ.
"I played my first game here in Malaysian in the Junior World Cup (1982) and ever since have loved the Malaysian weather. If we had played this tournament in Germany, wouldn't teams complain about the cold?," questioned Retegui.....
The Argies coach was elated, as it is not easy to hold Olympic champions to a draw, and they are now looking forward to a super run in Johor Baru.
The Germans scored off a Christopher Zeller penalty corner in the fifth minute, and Argentina replied also with a penalty corner in the 61st minute off a Gonzalo Peillat low drive.
German coach Markus Weise said it was not easy playing under sauna conditions (3pm start) but his Argentina counterpart Carlos Retegui begged to differ.
"I played my first game here in Malaysian in the Junior World Cup (1982) and ever since have loved the Malaysian weather. If we had played this tournament in Germany, wouldn't teams complain about the cold?," questioned Retegui.....
The Argies coach was elated, as it is not easy to hold Olympic champions to a draw, and they are now looking forward to a super run in Johor Baru.
Friday, June 28, 2013
Looks can be deceiving..
THE World Hockey League Semi-finals looks like a walk in the park, as a team just needs to enjoy the first three matches and then go for broke in the quarters and semis to qualify for the World Cup.
But like the easygoing chameleon, the tournament is designed to trap and destroy teams which are not consistent, and are not prepared mentally and physically for the last two hurdles.
Malaysia has never qualified for the World Cup since hosting it in 2002, and would find it difficult to finish among the medallists, as only the top-three advance to the Hague, Netherlands, next year.
Looking back at the Champions Challenge I in Argentina last December, hopefully Paul Revington and his men are better prepared for a tournament which offers all eight teams a place in the quarter-finals.
In the Champions Challenge Malaysia, in Group A, beat Poland 4-0, South Korea 4-2 and Canada 4-2 to enter the quarter-finals with their head high in the clouds.
And in the quarter-finals, Malaysia hammered South Africa 4-1 which was a super and remarkable achievement by any standard.
However, when it mattered most, Paul Revington’s men were crushed 6-3 by South Korea in the semi-finals, and then in the bronze play-off, were beaten 4-3 by Ireland.
Fourth placing in Argentina, after a super group and quarterfinal run, must never be allowed to happen in Johor Baru -- if the team has learnt from the past.
Comparatively, the Koreans only had one win in the group stages, but went all the way to the final before Argentina showed class to whip them 5-0 for the title.
Both Argentina and South Korea are also down in Johor Baru, and when one strings together England, Germany and Pakistan -- the leader-board looks cluttered with the chances of Malaysia sneaking in as a top-three candidate looking like a remote bet on Russian Roulette.
However, national coach Paul Revington is as optimistic as ever, and has even put the turbulent period before the World League to rest.
"I don't think this past week has been the concern - it was the period between January and just prior to last week that definitely affected everyone involved in the national squad.
"We managed to keep a lid on things through the Azlan Shah Cup and produced some quality hockey as a team and squad (Silver medal behind Australia).
"However, immediately after the Azlan Shah Cup, the real issues set in. I am confident that we have managed to get control of the situation and I will be pushing for further improvement than the Azlan Shah performance," said Revington.
And his thoughts on the opening game were: "Malaysia versus Pakistan has developed into a good rivalry over recent years.
"Pakistan are a very good side and we respect their ability. I think everyone in this event also knows that Malaysia have been improving year after year, month by month and have a group of players who can match any team in world hockey.
"This makes the opening game an exciting encounter."
The South African picked Germany as one of the top-three teams, and said the other seven have an equal chance to lay their hands on the remaining two slots.
Thursday, June 27, 2013
Pakistan the first hurdle ..
CHUA BOON HUAT
ROSLAN JAMALUDDIN
MALAYSIA will open accounts against Pakistan in the World League Semi-finals in Johor Baru on Saturday, with tradition favouring the men in green.
Pakistan have never failed to play in a World Cup since its inception in 1971. And from their 12 appearances, they are the most successful side with four titles won in 1971, 1978, 1982 and 1994.
The Netherlands have won three titles, and Germany and Australia have each won two titles with India lifting the trophy once.
“We have never failed to qualify for the World Cup and aim to keep the proud tradition intact in Johor Baru. We are here to qualify, and will not be looking towards the Asia Cup as a back-up,” said Pakistan head coach Akhtar Rasool.
The other teams in Group B are England and South Africa. The top-three teams in Johor Baru qualify for the World Cup in the Hague, Netherlands, next year.
Malaysian assistant coach Arul Selvaraj, however, aims to keep a winning momentum from the start -- and that means a win against Pakistan.
“Even though all eight teams play in the quarter-finals, we aim to keep a winning momentum in the group stages as well to give the players a boost ahead of the knock-out fixtures.
“Pakistan have some hard-running and skilful players, but the fact that we held them (2-2) in the Azlan Shah Cup means that they are not unbeatable,” said Arul.
The present squad has seen more downs than ups, except two senior players who have been successful in steering Malaysia past a qualifier, be it for the World Cup or the Olympics since 2000.
And goalkeeper Roslan Jamaluddin and striker Chua Boon Huat aim to utilise their experience in guiding their teammates negotiate their way past a host of top teams in Johor Baru.
Roslan and Chua played in the Osaka Olympic Qualifiers in 2000 where Malaysia made it on merit to the 2000 Sydney Olympics. After that Malaysia played in the 2002 World Cup as hosts and have never made it past the qualifiers to the two top events.
Roslan was left out of the national team after the 2006 Doha Asian Games and made a return in 2010 when coach Stephen van Huizen recalled him for the 2010 Commonwealth Games ( New Delhi) and Asian Games ( Guangzhou).
“Playing and getting through a qualifier gives a player a sense of satisfaction. The feeling is totally different and that is what I hope to share with the rest of the team,” said Roslan who competes against S. Kumar for the goalkeeping job in matches.
His views were echoed by Chua, who also like Roslan was in the wilderness from 2009 until recalled by coach Paul Revington when the South African took over the reins of the national team.
“I can still remember that day, and it was a fantastic feeling. And I aim to do my best here in Johor Baru to relive that feeling,” said Chua.
FIXTURES: World League Johor Baru
GROUP A: Germany, South Korea, Argentina, Japan.
GROUP B: England, Pakistan, South Africa, Malaysia.
June 29: Group A -- Germany v Argentina (3pm), Korea v Japan (5pm),
Group B: Pakistan v Malaysia (7pm), England v South Africa (9pm).
June 30: Group A: Argentina v Japan (3pm), Korea v Germany (5pm).
Group B: Pakistan v England (7pm), South Africa v Malaysia (9pm).
July 1: REST DAY
July 2: Group A: Germany v Japan (3pm), Argentina v Korea (5pm).
Group B: England v Malaysia (7pm), South Africa v Pakistan (9pm).
July 3: REST DAY
July 4: Quarter-finals.
NOTE: Malaysian time.
Tuesday, June 25, 2013
Experience and fitness for Koreans..
THE South Koreans will rely on experience and fitness in the World League Semi-finals starting in Johor Baru on Saturday.
After finishing second to Argentina in the Champions Challenge, the Koreans left behind three players as they played in tournaments and Tours, but have included them back into the squad to inject experience.
The highly experienced and deadly trio are Lee Nam Yong, Jang Jong Hyun and Oh Dae Keun -- all three of whom were missing from the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup where Malaysia beat them 3-2.
While Nam Yong and and Dae Keun joined the team after their commitments in the Dutch League, Jong Hyun was a late inclusion, only joining the squad after their Tour of Australia and New Zealand.
Jong Hyun is an ace penalty corner flicker and has a total of 197 international caps while Nam Yong has 206 to his credit and Dae Keun 104.
Nam Yong is best known for his goal seven seconds from time against Ireland in the Olympic Qualifiers in Dublin last year that saw Korea make it to London Olympics.
"We are a better side now compared to the Azlan Shah Cup (bronze finish) as the inclusion of these three players has added depth into the squad and we are more balanced," said South Korean coach Shin Seok Kyo.
"While Nam Yong and Dae Keun joined us in Perth, we decided to include Jong Hyun after the New Zealand matches.
"We are a more balanced side now and while consistency is a factor, it is two matches that will decide the fate of all eight teams here in Johor Baru."
Shin said that the quarter-finals and semis are two matches that are vital and the group matches will just be sparring sessions for teams as they plan their way into the knockout stages.
"The focus of every team would be on the knock-out matches, and ours is no different," said Shin.
With the haze clearing fast as the tournament day nears, the Korean coach had another complaint, that the the fixtures were rather unfair to teams in Group A which made up of Germany, South Korea, Japan and Argentina.
"We play all our matches in the early afternoons and it can get pretty hot here in Malaysia. So there should have been some matches at night for us. But then again I guess we cannot complain much as fitness is our forte and we can capitalise on this," added Shin.
In Group B are Malaysia, England, South Africa and Pakistan.
After finishing second to Argentina in the Champions Challenge, the Koreans left behind three players as they played in tournaments and Tours, but have included them back into the squad to inject experience.
The highly experienced and deadly trio are Lee Nam Yong, Jang Jong Hyun and Oh Dae Keun -- all three of whom were missing from the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup where Malaysia beat them 3-2.
While Nam Yong and and Dae Keun joined the team after their commitments in the Dutch League, Jong Hyun was a late inclusion, only joining the squad after their Tour of Australia and New Zealand.
Jong Hyun is an ace penalty corner flicker and has a total of 197 international caps while Nam Yong has 206 to his credit and Dae Keun 104.
Nam Yong is best known for his goal seven seconds from time against Ireland in the Olympic Qualifiers in Dublin last year that saw Korea make it to London Olympics.
"We are a better side now compared to the Azlan Shah Cup (bronze finish) as the inclusion of these three players has added depth into the squad and we are more balanced," said South Korean coach Shin Seok Kyo.
"While Nam Yong and Dae Keun joined us in Perth, we decided to include Jong Hyun after the New Zealand matches.
"We are a more balanced side now and while consistency is a factor, it is two matches that will decide the fate of all eight teams here in Johor Baru."
Shin said that the quarter-finals and semis are two matches that are vital and the group matches will just be sparring sessions for teams as they plan their way into the knockout stages.
"The focus of every team would be on the knock-out matches, and ours is no different," said Shin.
With the haze clearing fast as the tournament day nears, the Korean coach had another complaint, that the the fixtures were rather unfair to teams in Group A which made up of Germany, South Korea, Japan and Argentina.
"We play all our matches in the early afternoons and it can get pretty hot here in Malaysia. So there should have been some matches at night for us. But then again I guess we cannot complain much as fitness is our forte and we can capitalise on this," added Shin.
In Group B are Malaysia, England, South Africa and Pakistan.
Monday, June 24, 2013
FIH statement on haze..
BY FIH
Hockey World League Semi-Final Johor Bahru 2013 23 June 2013
Pollution and Air Quality Situation in Johor Bahru
As has widely been reported, smoke from large-scale forest fires in Indonesia has been drifting east and negatively affecting the air quality in Malaysia and Singapore.
With a view to the Hockey World League Semi-Final event starting in Johor Bahru on Saturday, the International Hockey Federation is closely monitoring the situation and developments in co-operation with the Malaysian Hockey Confederation, Malaysian government agencies and FIH Tournament Director Björn Isberg who has already been on the ground in Singapore for several days.
At this stage, our information is that the situation has been improving over the last two days, with the PSI (Pollutant Standards Index) dropping below 100 in Johor Bahru after peaking over 300. The forecast for the coming days is positive with an expectation for north-west winds and precipitation, which will contribute to further alleviate the situation but the possibility of sudden changes in wind direction remains, affecting the predictability of the development of the situation.
FIH is receiving updates on pollution and air quality data every four hours and is evaluating the situation and developments on an ongoing basis. Per the recommendation of the FIH Medical Committee, FIH's policy indicates that a match may be started or proceed if the PSI does not significantly exceed 100 for a prolonged period of time, but no match may be started or proceed at readings of 150 or above.
This policy is in line with the recommendations of the Malaysia Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment as well as the widespread consensus amongst government agencies worldwide which consider
• PSI values below 100 to indicate no to moderate pollution levels with few or no health effects for the general population,
• PSI values of 101-150 to have harmful impacts on sensitive groups of the population, and
• PSI values of 151-200 to have harmful impacts on sensitive groups of the population and cause transient symptoms of irritation e.g. eye irritation, sneezing or coughing in some of the healthy population.
FIH President Leandro Negre said, “The FIH is firmly committed to taking all measures necessary to protect the health and safety of athletes and officials participating in the upcoming Hockey World League Semi-Final event in Johor Bahru and to ensure a suitable high performance environment for a fair competition. Contingency plans are in place for the case that pollution in Johor Bahru returns to unhealthy to hazardous levels, including the possibility of relocating the event to a different city.”
FIH will continue to monitor the situation and will keep participating teams informed of all developments in due course.
Hockey World League Semi-Final Johor Bahru 2013 23 June 2013
Pollution and Air Quality Situation in Johor Bahru
As has widely been reported, smoke from large-scale forest fires in Indonesia has been drifting east and negatively affecting the air quality in Malaysia and Singapore.
With a view to the Hockey World League Semi-Final event starting in Johor Bahru on Saturday, the International Hockey Federation is closely monitoring the situation and developments in co-operation with the Malaysian Hockey Confederation, Malaysian government agencies and FIH Tournament Director Björn Isberg who has already been on the ground in Singapore for several days.
At this stage, our information is that the situation has been improving over the last two days, with the PSI (Pollutant Standards Index) dropping below 100 in Johor Bahru after peaking over 300. The forecast for the coming days is positive with an expectation for north-west winds and precipitation, which will contribute to further alleviate the situation but the possibility of sudden changes in wind direction remains, affecting the predictability of the development of the situation.
FIH is receiving updates on pollution and air quality data every four hours and is evaluating the situation and developments on an ongoing basis. Per the recommendation of the FIH Medical Committee, FIH's policy indicates that a match may be started or proceed if the PSI does not significantly exceed 100 for a prolonged period of time, but no match may be started or proceed at readings of 150 or above.
This policy is in line with the recommendations of the Malaysia Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment as well as the widespread consensus amongst government agencies worldwide which consider
• PSI values below 100 to indicate no to moderate pollution levels with few or no health effects for the general population,
• PSI values of 101-150 to have harmful impacts on sensitive groups of the population, and
• PSI values of 151-200 to have harmful impacts on sensitive groups of the population and cause transient symptoms of irritation e.g. eye irritation, sneezing or coughing in some of the healthy population.
FIH President Leandro Negre said, “The FIH is firmly committed to taking all measures necessary to protect the health and safety of athletes and officials participating in the upcoming Hockey World League Semi-Final event in Johor Bahru and to ensure a suitable high performance environment for a fair competition. Contingency plans are in place for the case that pollution in Johor Bahru returns to unhealthy to hazardous levels, including the possibility of relocating the event to a different city.”
FIH will continue to monitor the situation and will keep participating teams informed of all developments in due course.
Haze starts to clear up in Johor Baru..
The Malaysian juniors, South Korea and Argentina trained at the tournament venue yesterday, and according to juniors coach K. Dharmaraj, conditions at present are playable.
“While travelling from Kuala Lumpur to Johor Baru con ditions along the highway were bad a few days back, but when we reached Taman Daya, there was hardly any haze and we got a chance to play a friendly against the Argentina side (on Sunday),” said Dharmaraj who is preparing his team for the Junior World Cup in India in December.
The Malaysian juniors got a chance of their life-time, as many teams will be using them to spar in the run-up to the World League.
“Even though we lost 3-1 to Argentina, the Argies did not look too impressive but maybe it is because of jet-lag and acclimatisation. We will be playing a friendly against South Korea next and then Japan which is a fantastic opportunity for my charges to toughen themselves ahead of New Delhi,” said Dharmaraj.
Organising secretary Manjit Majid Abdullah said there was heavy rain in Pasir Gudang, and a drizzle in Taman Daya and the forecast for the next few days looks good.
“I spoke to the tournament director (Bjorn Isberg of Sweden) and we have a contingency plan in place. If the haze disrupt any match, we have three rest days and can utilise them.
“Also, the conditions around Kuala Lumpur and Kuantan are worse off than Johor Baru, and moving the tournament is not feasible at the moment,” said Manjit.
Yesterday, a total of RM640,000 was handed over by sponsors to the Johor Hockey Association in a simple cer emony that marks the countdown of an event where three more teams will qualify for the 2014 World Cup in Holland.
Present to receive the sponsorship was Johor State Ex ecutive Councillar for Youth and Sports Datuk Zulkarnain Kamisan. Also present was JHA President Jais Sardy and Malaysian Hockey Confederation vice president M. Gob inathan.
Eight teams will compete in Johor Baru on June 29-July 7. Group A comprises of Germany, South Korea, Argentina and Japan while Group B has England, Pakistan, South Africa and Malaysia.
A total of 12 teams will play in the 2014 World Cup where hosts Netherlands are automatic qualifiers while Belgium and Australia qualified after finishing one-two respectively in another World League Semi-finals which ended at the The Hague on Sunday.
Belgium crowned World League champs..
Belgium – Australia 3-2 (0-1 halftime) (7-6 shootout)
There was no shortage of drama in the game as Belgium
came back from a one-goal deficit to take a 2-1 lead only to see it
erased in the last minute by a Russell Ford strike. The shootout was no
less dramatic as it took an amazing nine rounds to settle things. It was
only when Chris Ciriello shot wide on the final Australian chance that
the game was decided and Belgium could celebrate its first-ever title at
a top-level FIH event.
It was a battle throughout the 70 minutes with neither team giving
the other much breathing space. Australia’s Christopher Ciriello broke
the stalemate doing what he does best – firing in drag flicks. Ciriello
put all his might into the flick on a diving effort that hit the far
corner of the goal and lifted Australia to a 1-0 lead 21 minutes into
the game.
It was a lot of back-and-forth with the Aussies showing
a little more strength as the game wore on. But Tom Boon sparked
Belgium to life when he got his stick on the ball with a well-timed
deflection that sent the ball top shelf for the equalizing goal in the
49th minute.
Sebastien Dockier was left unchecked at point blank range in front of
the Australia net and it cost the World #2 team dearly as he was fed a
centering pass that he easily popped in to give the Belgians the 2-1
lead with 11 minutes to go in the game with 11 minutes to go in the
game.
Russell Ford struck with exactly 60 seconds left on the
clock deflecting the ball up and over Belgian goaltender Vincent Vanash
to tie the game at two and send the game to a deciding shootout.
The game was a rematch of a preliminary round meeting between the two
teams, which Belgium won, 3-1. Ultimately, that win gave Belgian the
easier road to the final game as the top seed out of their preliminary
round.
The win gives the ninth-ranked Belgians their
first-ever victory at a top-tier FIH event, a true feather in the cap
for the country, which has shot up the FIH World Ranking and enjoyed
massive success in the last few years. It is also a major momentum
builder for the Belgians for the EuroHockey Championship, which they
will host.
Dutch claim bronze, Kiwis wait fate..
By Stephen Findlater
(Photo: Frank Uijlenbroek)
3rd-4th place playoff
New Zealand – Netherlands 1-4 (half-time: 1-1)
Jeroen Hertzberger’s
double helped the Netherlands land third place from the World League
semi-final in Rotterdam, leaving New Zealand having to wait and see
whether they will be confirmed as a 2014 World Cup qualifier.
It was primarily down to a
controlled second half performance to see off the Blacksticks who had
taken the game to the hosts in the early phases. Against
the run of play, New Zealand hit the front as Phil Burrows burst
through down the right channel and picked out the narrowest of gaps by
Pirmin Blaak’s left boot, taking a 1-0 lead in the 13th minute.
That advantage,
though, lasted just five minutes as Rogier Hofman’s excellent baseline
run opened the door and he fired across for Jeroen Hertzberger to touch
in his tenth goal of the tournament. It remained locked at 1-1 until the
break as Billy Bakker’s rising shot was brilliantly saved by Hamish
McGregor just a couple of seconds before the interval.
But the Dutch took control in the
second period as Hertzberger netted his second of the game with a
powerful drag-flick soon in the 39th
minute. Valentin Verga’s left wing cross-shot from a tight angle then
deceived all before him with defender Stephen Jenness getting a slight
touch to redirect the ball into the goal.
From there, New
Zealand battled hard with a couple of near misses in the closing quarter
but the Dutch rounded off proceedings in the closing minutes when Jelle
Galema swept home after Hofman again created the chance down the right.
Sunday, June 23, 2013
English move base, Argies stick to JB..
THE English did not take any chances when they moved their camp to Kuala Lumpur, but the Argies did not seem to mind the haze in Johor Baru as they trained for the World League Semi-finals yesterday morning.
The World League starts on Saturday, and with the top- three teams assured tickets to the World Cup next year, the hazy conditions could turn the situation chaotic if it con tinues.
England, world no 4, arrived in Singapore on Thursday and were supposed to play a friendly with the Singapore national team there but with the Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) hovering around 400, they stayed indoors instead.
However, the readings dropped to about 63 yesterday, and the Argentine team found no qualms about training at the tournament venue, the Taman Daya Stadium.
In fact, the Argentine side even played a friendly yesterday evening with Malaysia Junior World Cup side, coached by K. Dharmaraj.
But England moved to KL, and conducted their first training session at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil on Saturday, and head coach Bobby Crutchley is happy the squad finally found some playing time.
“We lost two days of training as we were scheduled to play the Singapore national squad. The player’s health comes first and we could not carry on as the pollutant index was very high.
“This is a physically challenging sport, and to play five games in nine days under those conditions is certainly asking for trouble.
“But for now, we need to continue with training and that is why we opted to come to KL and hope the conditions improve in the next few days and the tournament will be able to run smoothly,” said Crutchley.
England are in Group B with Malaysia, Pakistan and South Africa while in Group A are Germany, Argentina, Japan and South Korea.
The situation is being monitored closely and according to the organising secretary Manjit Majid Abdullah: “The PSI index on Thursday went as high as 380. But the situation has improved tremendously over the last two days.
“We expect some thunderstorms over the next few days which will clear the haze to a much lower level.
The PSI reading at 5.40pm, yesterday at Taman Daya was 70.
The International Hockey Federation (FIH) is being up dated daily on the situation.
Saturday, June 22, 2013
Kok Chi shows who is the boss..
by Sports247.my
sports247.my#sthash.UkFQT9IO.dpuf
sports247.my#sthash.UkFQT9IO.dpuf
A DEFIANT Datuk Sieh Kok Chi has told his critics to put up or shut up.
While admitting he is happy to have defended his position as secretary of the Olympic Council of Malaysia, Kok Chi expressed disappointment with the way the election campaign was handled.
The 74-year-old, who defeated T. Kumar by a whopping 26 majority (62-36) in today’s election, expressed his disappointment certain parties tried to force him to step down.
“It should not have happened in such a way. There was just too much campaigning and politicking recently. I’m really tired of all that,” he said after the adjournment of 32nd OCM Annual General Assembly this afternoon.
“There were many baseless allegations against me. There was no evidence, but my name was dragged through the mud. That makes me feel really disheartened.”
While admitting he is “old” and “staying too long”, Kok Chi insisted no one has the right to tell him when he should leave.
“If I am no longer able to deliver and contribute, I will leave right away, I can assure you of that,” he said.
“I don’t understand why other people have to speak on behalf of me that this will be my last term, they are not my boss. It’s for me to decide.”
Kok Chi also had some words for the newly elected office bearers.
The no-nonsense man said: “I hope they can change their way of doing things. Don’t only keep finding fault, but fail to come up with good proposals (to solve problems).
“I really wish everyone can work towards the accomplishment of some unfinished business and overcome future challenges.”
Meanwhile, OCM President Tan Sri Tunku Imran Tuanku Ja’afar is delighted Kok Chi – a man he hailed as an important asset to OCM – retained his seat.
“His experience is invaluable. He will remain as an important figure to the Olympic movement in Malaysia.
“I bet no one else has better knowledge in the country and internationally,” said Tunku Imran.
“There were some complaints over his management style and methodology, but I never doubted his motives and integrity.”
A DEFIANT Datuk Sieh Kok Chi has told his critics to put up or shut up.
While admitting he is happy to have defended his position as secretary of the Olympic Council of Malaysia, Kok Chi expressed disappointment with the way the election campaign was handled.
The 74-year-old, who defeated T. Kumar by a whopping 26 majority (62-36) in today’s election, expressed his disappointment certain parties tried to force him to step down.
“It should not have happened in such a way. There was just too much campaigning and politicking recently. I’m really tired of all that,” he said after the adjournment of 32nd OCM Annual General Assembly this afternoon.
“There were many baseless allegations against me. There was no evidence, but my name was dragged through the mud. That makes me feel really disheartened.”
While admitting he is “old” and “staying too long”, Kok Chi insisted no one has the right to tell him when he should leave.
“If I am no longer able to deliver and contribute, I will leave right away, I can assure you of that,” he said.
“I don’t understand why other people have to speak on behalf of me that this will be my last term, they are not my boss. It’s for me to decide.”
Kok Chi also had some words for the newly elected office bearers.
The no-nonsense man said: “I hope they can change their way of doing things. Don’t only keep finding fault, but fail to come up with good proposals (to solve problems).
“I really wish everyone can work towards the accomplishment of some unfinished business and overcome future challenges.”
Meanwhile, OCM President Tan Sri Tunku Imran Tuanku Ja’afar is delighted Kok Chi – a man he hailed as an important asset to OCM – retained his seat.
“His experience is invaluable. He will remain as an important figure to the Olympic movement in Malaysia.
“I bet no one else has better knowledge in the country and internationally,” said Tunku Imran.
“There were some complaints over his management style and methodology, but I never doubted his motives and integrity.”
- See more at: http://www.sports247.my/2013/06/kok-chi-i-shall-not-be-moved/#sthash.UkFQT9IO.dpuf
While admitting he is happy to have defended his position as secretary of the Olympic Council of Malaysia, Kok Chi expressed disappointment with the way the election campaign was handled.
The 74-year-old, who defeated T. Kumar by a whopping 26 majority (62-36) in today’s election, expressed his disappointment certain parties tried to force him to step down.
“It should not have happened in such a way. There was just too much campaigning and politicking recently. I’m really tired of all that,” he said after the adjournment of 32nd OCM Annual General Assembly this afternoon.
“There were many baseless allegations against me. There was no evidence, but my name was dragged through the mud. That makes me feel really disheartened.”
While admitting he is “old” and “staying too long”, Kok Chi insisted no one has the right to tell him when he should leave.
“If I am no longer able to deliver and contribute, I will leave right away, I can assure you of that,” he said.
“I don’t understand why other people have to speak on behalf of me that this will be my last term, they are not my boss. It’s for me to decide.”
Kok Chi also had some words for the newly elected office bearers.
The no-nonsense man said: “I hope they can change their way of doing things. Don’t only keep finding fault, but fail to come up with good proposals (to solve problems).
“I really wish everyone can work towards the accomplishment of some unfinished business and overcome future challenges.”
Meanwhile, OCM President Tan Sri Tunku Imran Tuanku Ja’afar is delighted Kok Chi – a man he hailed as an important asset to OCM – retained his seat.
“His experience is invaluable. He will remain as an important figure to the Olympic movement in Malaysia.
“I bet no one else has better knowledge in the country and internationally,” said Tunku Imran.
“There were some complaints over his management style and methodology, but I never doubted his motives and integrity.”
- See more at: http://www.sports247.my/2013/06/kok-chi-i-shall-not-be-moved/#sthash.UkFQT9IO.dpuf
A DEFIANT Datuk Sieh Kok Chi has told his critics to put up or shut up.
While admitting he is happy to have defended his position as secretary of the Olympic Council of Malaysia, Kok Chi expressed disappointment with the way the election campaign was handled.
The 74-year-old, who defeated T. Kumar by a whopping 26 majority (62-36) in today’s election, expressed his disappointment certain parties tried to force him to step down.
“It should not have happened in such a way. There was just too much campaigning and politicking recently. I’m really tired of all that,” he said after the adjournment of 32nd OCM Annual General Assembly this afternoon.
“There were many baseless allegations against me. There was no evidence, but my name was dragged through the mud. That makes me feel really disheartened.”
While admitting he is “old” and “staying too long”, Kok Chi insisted no one has the right to tell him when he should leave.
“If I am no longer able to deliver and contribute, I will leave right away, I can assure you of that,” he said.
“I don’t understand why other people have to speak on behalf of me that this will be my last term, they are not my boss. It’s for me to decide.”
Kok Chi also had some words for the newly elected office bearers.
The no-nonsense man said: “I hope they can change their way of doing things. Don’t only keep finding fault, but fail to come up with good proposals (to solve problems).
“I really wish everyone can work towards the accomplishment of some unfinished business and overcome future challenges.”
Meanwhile, OCM President Tan Sri Tunku Imran Tuanku Ja’afar is delighted Kok Chi – a man he hailed as an important asset to OCM – retained his seat.
“His experience is invaluable. He will remain as an important figure to the Olympic movement in Malaysia.
“I bet no one else has better knowledge in the country and internationally,” said Tunku Imran.
“There were some complaints over his management style and methodology, but I never doubted his motives and integrity.”
- See more at: http://www.sports247.my/2013/06/kok-chi-i-shall-not-be-moved/#sthash.UkFQT9IO.dpuf
While admitting he is happy to have defended his position as secretary of the Olympic Council of Malaysia, Kok Chi expressed disappointment with the way the election campaign was handled.
The 74-year-old, who defeated T. Kumar by a whopping 26 majority (62-36) in today’s election, expressed his disappointment certain parties tried to force him to step down.
“It should not have happened in such a way. There was just too much campaigning and politicking recently. I’m really tired of all that,” he said after the adjournment of 32nd OCM Annual General Assembly this afternoon.
“There were many baseless allegations against me. There was no evidence, but my name was dragged through the mud. That makes me feel really disheartened.”
While admitting he is “old” and “staying too long”, Kok Chi insisted no one has the right to tell him when he should leave.
“If I am no longer able to deliver and contribute, I will leave right away, I can assure you of that,” he said.
“I don’t understand why other people have to speak on behalf of me that this will be my last term, they are not my boss. It’s for me to decide.”
Kok Chi also had some words for the newly elected office bearers.
The no-nonsense man said: “I hope they can change their way of doing things. Don’t only keep finding fault, but fail to come up with good proposals (to solve problems).
“I really wish everyone can work towards the accomplishment of some unfinished business and overcome future challenges.”
Meanwhile, OCM President Tan Sri Tunku Imran Tuanku Ja’afar is delighted Kok Chi – a man he hailed as an important asset to OCM – retained his seat.
“His experience is invaluable. He will remain as an important figure to the Olympic movement in Malaysia.
“I bet no one else has better knowledge in the country and internationally,” said Tunku Imran.
“There were some complaints over his management style and methodology, but I never doubted his motives and integrity.”
- See more at: http://www.sports247.my/2013/06/kok-chi-i-shall-not-be-moved/#sthash.UkFQT9IO.dpuf
A DEFIANT Datuk Sieh Kok Chi has told his critics to put up or shut up.
While admitting he is happy to have defended his position as secretary of the Olympic Council of Malaysia, Kok Chi expressed disappointment with the way the election campaign was handled.
The 74-year-old, who defeated T. Kumar by a whopping 26 majority (62-36) in today’s election, expressed his disappointment certain parties tried to force him to step down.
“It should not have happened in such a way. There was just too much campaigning and politicking recently. I’m really tired of all that,” he said after the adjournment of 32nd OCM Annual General Assembly this afternoon.
“There were many baseless allegations against me. There was no evidence, but my name was dragged through the mud. That makes me feel really disheartened.”
While admitting he is “old” and “staying too long”, Kok Chi insisted no one has the right to tell him when he should leave.
“If I am no longer able to deliver and contribute, I will leave right away, I can assure you of that,” he said.
“I don’t understand why other people have to speak on behalf of me that this will be my last term, they are not my boss. It’s for me to decide.”
Kok Chi also had some words for the newly elected office bearers.
The no-nonsense man said: “I hope they can change their way of doing things. Don’t only keep finding fault, but fail to come up with good proposals (to solve problems).
“I really wish everyone can work towards the accomplishment of some unfinished business and overcome future challenges.”
Meanwhile, OCM President Tan Sri Tunku Imran Tuanku Ja’afar is delighted Kok Chi – a man he hailed as an important asset to OCM – retained his seat.
“His experience is invaluable. He will remain as an important figure to the Olympic movement in Malaysia.
“I bet no one else has better knowledge in the country and internationally,” said Tunku Imran.
“There were some complaints over his management style and methodology, but I never doubted his motives and integrity.”
- See more at: http://www.sports247.my/2013/06/kok-chi-i-shall-not-be-moved/#sthash.UkFQT9IO.dpuf
While admitting he is happy to have defended his position as secretary of the Olympic Council of Malaysia, Kok Chi expressed disappointment with the way the election campaign was handled.
The 74-year-old, who defeated T. Kumar by a whopping 26 majority (62-36) in today’s election, expressed his disappointment certain parties tried to force him to step down.
“It should not have happened in such a way. There was just too much campaigning and politicking recently. I’m really tired of all that,” he said after the adjournment of 32nd OCM Annual General Assembly this afternoon.
“There were many baseless allegations against me. There was no evidence, but my name was dragged through the mud. That makes me feel really disheartened.”
While admitting he is “old” and “staying too long”, Kok Chi insisted no one has the right to tell him when he should leave.
“If I am no longer able to deliver and contribute, I will leave right away, I can assure you of that,” he said.
“I don’t understand why other people have to speak on behalf of me that this will be my last term, they are not my boss. It’s for me to decide.”
Kok Chi also had some words for the newly elected office bearers.
The no-nonsense man said: “I hope they can change their way of doing things. Don’t only keep finding fault, but fail to come up with good proposals (to solve problems).
“I really wish everyone can work towards the accomplishment of some unfinished business and overcome future challenges.”
Meanwhile, OCM President Tan Sri Tunku Imran Tuanku Ja’afar is delighted Kok Chi – a man he hailed as an important asset to OCM – retained his seat.
“His experience is invaluable. He will remain as an important figure to the Olympic movement in Malaysia.
“I bet no one else has better knowledge in the country and internationally,” said Tunku Imran.
“There were some complaints over his management style and methodology, but I never doubted his motives and integrity.”
- See more at: http://www.sports247.my/2013/06/kok-chi-i-shall-not-be-moved/#sthash.UkFQT9IO.dpuf
Belgium confirm 2014 World Cup spot
World League Round Three semi-final
Belgium - New Zealand 3-2 (half-time: 2-1)
Tom Boon’s double helped Belgium claim the first place
in the final of the World League semi-final in Rotterdam as they held
off New Zealand, copper-fastening their 2014 World Cup spot in the
process.
Thomas Briels’ delightful little
touch in front of Devon Manchester opened the scoring early on as he met
a bouncing ball just before the goalkeeper closed in, lifting it up and
over him before nestling in the net.
That lead lasted until the 18th
minute when Alex Shaw’s powerful ball into the circle was redirected in
by Blair Hilton, getting a faint touch whilst in the process of falling
and leaving Vincent Vanasch with little time to react.
But Belgium made their move in the
second third as Tom Boon rocketed home a high and straight drag flick
over Manchester’s head before half-time. He added the third when others
dallied in the circle, taking control with a clean strike in the 38th
minute. Boon almost had a hat trick with a neat touch behind his back
which Manchester did well to block as the Belgians looked well set.
The Blacksticks
responded, though, and they were right back in the mix when Andy Hayward
fired a low shot to the backboard from a penalty corner. And the same
man almost had the equaliser with three minutes to go only for Vanasch
to stick out a big toe to keep Belgium just in front.
That save confirmed Belgium were through while New Zealand must now battle in the third place playoff on Sunday.
Australia triumph over Netherlands in 4-3 thriller
World League Round Three – semi-final
Australia – Netherlands 4-3 (h-t: 2-1)
Australia won a battle of corners to see off Rotterdam
hosts the Netherlands 4-3 to reach the final of the World League and
guarantee their ticket to the 2014 World Cup into the bargain.
It was a thriller throughout with the Aussies never able to get fully
free of a Dutch side that kept fighting their way back into the tie.
Christopher Ciriello’s second minute drag-flick initially saw a penalty
stroke awarded but it was ruled out on referral.
But the set piece expert did not have long to wait
until he opened the scoring, dragging home a low bullet past Jaap
Stockmann’s stick side. Jeroen Hertzberger levelled with a flick of his
own after Jelle Galema’s good work won the corner.
Matt Gohdes, though, gave Australia the half-time lead with a superb
effort, ghosting down the right baseline, flipping the ball onto his
reverse before sliding the ball under the goalkeeper.
The second equaliser owed more to brute force than
finesse as Billy Bakker roofed a brilliantly powerful backhand shot.
From 2-2, the game reverted back to a corner shoot-out as Russell Ford
got a touch to Kieran Govers low flick to restore his side’s lead for a
third time.
Crucially, Govers’ heavily deflected flick with 14 minutes left put
Australia two ahead for the first time and while Rogier Hofman did get
one back from the injector spot, the Dutch could not find another goal.
It means Australia will play Belgium in Sunday’s final
while the Netherlands are into the third place playoff against New
Zealand.
Friday, June 21, 2013
Norhizzat, Firhan complete the Malaysian cast..
NATIONAL coach Paul Revington injected two more youth into his final squad yesterday, as he prepares to battle the best in the World League Semi-finals in Johor Baru on June 29-July 7.
He had named 16 players earlier, but then got embroiled in a quit drama, before making a come-back and naming Firhan Ashaari, 20, and Norhizzat Sumantri, 21, yesterday.
The other youth in the side are Faiz Helmi, 21, Faizal
Saari, 22, Izad Hakimi, 20, Fitri Saari, 20, Marhan Jalil, 23 and Izwan Firdaus, 24.
Only both the goalkeepers and Chua Boon Huat have hit 30 while the rest are young, but with plenty of experience playing at various levels.
S. Kumar, 33, is the best in Asia, while his assistant Roslan Jamaluddin, 34, is a reliable replacement. Chua, at 33, still has a youthful bounce and proved his worth by helping Malaysia into the final of the Azlan Shah Cup with deft goals.
The top-three from Johor Baru are assured of a spot in the Netherlands World Cup next year, failing which Malaysia will have to make an attempt via the Asia Cup in Ipoh.
For warm-ups, Malaysia play Argentina on June 25 and Germany on June 26 (subject to the haze readings) before starting their journey in the World League Semi-finals in Group B with England, Pakistan and South Africa.
In Group A are Germany, Argentina, Japan and South Korea. All eight teams advance to the quarter-finals.
“We have selected the best, and as usual, the target is to play in the final of the tournament and qualify for the World Cup,” said Revington.
However, the early indications are that Malaysia are likely to meet strong opposition in the quatrer-finals, and making the grade through the World League does not look as easy as it does on paper.
Goalkeepers: S. Kumar, Roslan Jamaluddin; Defenders: Baljit Singh, Razie Rahim, Nabil Fiqri, Shahrun Nabil; Mid fielders: Shukri Mutalib, Azlan Misron, Chua Boon Huat, Izwan Firdaus, Izad Hakimi; Strikers: Faizal Saari, Fitri Saari, Marhan Jalil, Tengku Ahmad Tajudin, Faiz Helmi, Firhan Ashaari, Norhizzat Sumantri.
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