THE Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) affiliates finally came to a consensus yesterday when it was proposed that two deputy presidents' seats be made available to stop internal squabbling.
At their Council Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, where amendments to the constitution were discussed, the main issue revolved around the deputy president's post as well as the abolishment of the executive council.
Cooler heads prevailed as the executive council will also be retained, as abolishing it would mean a smaller committee to run the administration while the executive council only meet once in four years at their congress.
Now, MHC have to ensure they get a two-thirds majority during EGM in March, to approve the amenements and forward it to the Sports Commissioner as well as the International Hockey Federation (FIH) for endorsement before proceeding with the AGM which is proposed to be held in May.
"The council members decided that two deputy president's posts would be better and also to retain the executive council. Other than that there were only minor strenghtening of our constitution," said MHC deputy president Puan Sri Raja Noora Ashikin.
Noora Ashikin was pivotal in stopping the MHC from making a mockery of themselves by not adhearing to the regulations of the FIH regarding gender equity.
The FIH as well as the Sports Commissioner's office then rejected earlier amendments made to the constitution, and yesterday was back to first base, in a commical merry-go-round.
"Now we need to go through the motions properly by endorsement at the EGM, getting approval from the FIH as well as Sports Commissioner's office before we hold our AGM," said Raja Noora Ashikin.
Earlier, Datuk Seri Subahan Kamal was the sole nominee for the presdient's post, while Raja Noora Ashikin and Datuk Nur Azmi Ahmad were nominated for the sole deputy president's post.
However, with two deputy presidents' inserted into the constitution, Raja Noora Ashikin is likely to have no challengers while Azmi might face a battle at the ballots.
Also, rumours are rife that there will also be a challenger for Subahan this time around.
Saturday, February 28, 2015
Friday, February 27, 2015
Thunder.. Thunder.. Thunderbolts!
SSTMI Thunderbolts claimed their fourth straight Division One league title when they beat SSP -MSP-Thunderbolts 3-1 in the MHC-Milo-NSC Junior Hockey League at the Taman Daya Stadium in Johor Baru Friday.
UniKL earned the second spot when they drew 1-1 with Petaling Jaya Municipal Council. Thunderbolts ended with 22 points, UniKL 19 points while PJCC had 18 points when the dust settled.
However Thunderbolts, whose only blemish this season was a 2-2 draw with PJCC, received an early wake-up call when SSP -MSP-Thunderbolts took the lead off Idris Samad in the sixth minute when he flicked home off a penalty corner attempt.
But Firdaus Omar drew level off a penalty corner goal in the ninth minute, while field goals from Luqman Hakim (34th) and Danial Asyraf (65th) made sure the silverware remains with the double champions.
Now, coach Wan Roslan Wan Rahman wants his charges to life the Milo Cup as well.
"We received a jolt in the sixth minute, but I never doubted that my players will fail in the final hurdle today (yesterday) and they recovered nicely to score three goals and defend our title.
"The scoreline does not reflect the match, as my players were guilty of missing many sitters. However, now that we have lifted one title, we will be going for our fourth consecutive double as well when the Milo Cup starts," said Wan Roslan.
For UniKL Rauf Nazri delivered off a penalty corner attempt in the 27th while ashraf zuhry (52nd) scored the equaliser off a penalty corener goal as well.
Thunderbolts, UniKL, PJCC and Pahang SS have qualified for the knockout Milo Cup. Four more teams will join them from Division Two.
RESULTS: Division One: SSTMI Thunderbolts 3 SSP-MSP-Thunderbolts 1, PJCC 1 UniKL Young Guns 1, SSTMI Juniors 3 Bukit Jalil SS 3.
Division Two playoffs: 1 Mas TBSS Tampin 2 BJSS Jrs 2; 1 Mas Perlis x SMKDBKL PHJ x.
Saturday -- DIVISION One: Politeknik Malaysia v BJSS (Taman Daya I), SSTMI Juniors v KLHC (Taman Daya II).
Division Two Playoffs: BJSS Juniors v Nur Insafi-Penang Hockey (National Stadium II), SMKDBL PHJ v MSN-THT (National Stadium II, 6.45pm).
Note: All other matches 4.45pm.
ends/
Monday, February 23, 2015
MHC treasurer Radha: Give us two weeks to settle bills
MALAYSIAN Hockey Confederation (MHC) treasurer Datuk N. Radhakrishnan yesterday confirmed that they body has many unsettled bills to honour, but gave an assurance that everybody will receive their due in the next two weeks.
Officials, umpires, clubs and national players cried foul last weekend when their allowances, winning purse, bonuses and other monetary promises have fallen on deaf ears since last year.
MHC are said to be in the red, but president Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah will fork out some cash and settle the matter before bowing out of the Confederation.
"Yes, whatever that has been written about non-payment on our part is true, but the wheels are already turning to make sure payment is made in the next two weeks," said Radhakrishnan.
The treasurer met Tengku Abdullah, together with MHC secretary general Datuk Johari Aziz to settle the matter.
"We have contacted some of the sponsors who have yet to oblige their pledges and the outcome is positive. Also, Tengku Abdullah will fork out some personal cash to settle the overdue issues.
Umpires and match officials, about 50 of them, have yet to receive allowances and traveling costs for officiating at the Malaysia Hockey League which ended in December.
Each MHL umpire and official is owed at least RM3,000 by the MHC.
Even match winnings for the top-four teams in the MHL has yet to be settled. The MHC owe TNB CUP clubs a whopping RM190,000. Champions Terengganu Hockey Team (Rm70,000), runners-up Kuala Lumpur HA (RM50,000), bronze medallists Tenaga Nasional (RM40,000) and fourth-placed Maybank (RM30,000) have yet to see the promised purse.
"I understand the hardships faced by individuals and clubs because of late payment, and apologise for the delay. Rest assured that we are doing all we can to honour everybody we owe," said Radhakrishnan.
MHC al;so owe TNB CUP roll of honour players Fitri Saari (best player of the final), Faizal Saari (top-scorer, 17 goals) and Hafizuddin Othman (best goalkeeper) RM2,000 each.
Tenaga are the title sponsors for MHL and other domestic tournaments, to the tune of RM2 million per-year.
Satates are also still awaiting for the promised subsidy of RM3,000 each for the Raja Noora Ashikin Cup in November.
On the player-side Faizal, after scoring 12 goals and being named the Best Player in the Singapore World League, refused to attend training since because bonus promises made by certain MHC officials were never realised.
MHC are at the verge of finalising their election date, and Tengku Abdullah has made a stand of not seeking re-election for the president's post as he wants to concentrate on his Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) president's post, as well as make a move to be elected as an executive board member of FIFA.
The MHC are said to be in the red to the tune of RM2million, because they also owe at least three officials about RM100,000 each after they forked out personal cash to bail out overseas trips as well as promised bonuses to players for qualifying for the World Cup.
Officials, umpires, clubs and national players cried foul last weekend when their allowances, winning purse, bonuses and other monetary promises have fallen on deaf ears since last year.
MHC are said to be in the red, but president Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah will fork out some cash and settle the matter before bowing out of the Confederation.
"Yes, whatever that has been written about non-payment on our part is true, but the wheels are already turning to make sure payment is made in the next two weeks," said Radhakrishnan.
The treasurer met Tengku Abdullah, together with MHC secretary general Datuk Johari Aziz to settle the matter.
"We have contacted some of the sponsors who have yet to oblige their pledges and the outcome is positive. Also, Tengku Abdullah will fork out some personal cash to settle the overdue issues.
Umpires and match officials, about 50 of them, have yet to receive allowances and traveling costs for officiating at the Malaysia Hockey League which ended in December.
Each MHL umpire and official is owed at least RM3,000 by the MHC.
Even match winnings for the top-four teams in the MHL has yet to be settled. The MHC owe TNB CUP clubs a whopping RM190,000. Champions Terengganu Hockey Team (Rm70,000), runners-up Kuala Lumpur HA (RM50,000), bronze medallists Tenaga Nasional (RM40,000) and fourth-placed Maybank (RM30,000) have yet to see the promised purse.
"I understand the hardships faced by individuals and clubs because of late payment, and apologise for the delay. Rest assured that we are doing all we can to honour everybody we owe," said Radhakrishnan.
MHC al;so owe TNB CUP roll of honour players Fitri Saari (best player of the final), Faizal Saari (top-scorer, 17 goals) and Hafizuddin Othman (best goalkeeper) RM2,000 each.
Tenaga are the title sponsors for MHL and other domestic tournaments, to the tune of RM2 million per-year.
Satates are also still awaiting for the promised subsidy of RM3,000 each for the Raja Noora Ashikin Cup in November.
On the player-side Faizal, after scoring 12 goals and being named the Best Player in the Singapore World League, refused to attend training since because bonus promises made by certain MHC officials were never realised.
MHC are at the verge of finalising their election date, and Tengku Abdullah has made a stand of not seeking re-election for the president's post as he wants to concentrate on his Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) president's post, as well as make a move to be elected as an executive board member of FIFA.
The MHC are said to be in the red to the tune of RM2million, because they also owe at least three officials about RM100,000 each after they forked out personal cash to bail out overseas trips as well as promised bonuses to players for qualifying for the World Cup.
Sunday, February 22, 2015
Nasihin: Women ready for challenge..
THE Malaysian women's hockey team will attempt to break their jinx and qualify for the World League Semi-finals for the first time, and its not a piped dream.
The women will play in the World League Round Two in New Delhi from March 7-15, and are seeded second after becoming champions in the World League Round One in Singapore last year.
"We are in a good group with teams which we have beaten before and that's why I'm confident that we will play in the final and earn our ticket to the WL Semi-finals this time around," said coach Nasihin Nubli.
The World Hockey League is a qualifier for the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics.
Malaysia, ranked 21 in the world are in Group B with Russia, Singapore and Kazakhstan. World No 13 India, are the top seeds and have Poland, Ghana and Thailand in Group A.
Nasihin said Russia will be Malaysia’s biggest hurdle to finish tops in their group, and earn a favourable draw by playing the bottom placed team from Group A in the quarter-finals.
“We beat Russia in our last meeting (in 2013), and I believe we can do the same in New Delhi if we take our chances well," said Nasihin.
He will select 20 players and head for New Delhi on March 3 were at least four friendlies will be played before Nasihin names his final 18.
The Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) have set a top-two target for the women.
MALAYSIA'S FIXTURES -- March 7: Malaysia v Kazakhstan; March 8: Malaysia v Russia; March 10: Malaysia v Singapore.
Note: All eight teams qualify for quarter-finals.
Saturday, February 21, 2015
Umpires flash red card to MHC
UMPIRES and match officials yesterday blew the whistle and flashed a red card to the Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) who still owe them money from last year.
Joining the chorus were four Malaysia Hockey League (MHL) semi-finalists, as they too have yet to receive their TNB Cup winnings -- even though the finals were held in December last year.
And Faizal Saari is also said to have jumped ship after the Singapore World League Round Two, as he and his team-mates have been promised cash incentives since qualifying for the World Cup, but have yet to see the money.
"We have been waiting for a long time as we have only received empty promises when ever we called to inquire about our allowances for the MHL. Each umpire and official are waiting for at least RM3,000 and there are 50 of us on the empty promises list," said an official who declined to be named.
Terengganu Hockey Team, who won the TNB Cup, are still awaiting for their RM70,000. The same goes for runners-up Kuala Lumpur Hockey Club (RM50,000), bronze medallists Tenaga Nasional (RM40,000) and fourth placed Maybank (RM30,000).
The TNB CUP roll of honour is also still not honoured, as THT players Fitri Saari (best player of the final), Faizal Saari (top-scored, 17 goals) and Hafizuddin Othman (best goalkeeper) were supposed to receive RM2,000 each.
Tenaga are the title sponsors for MHL and other domestic tournaments, to the tune of RM2 million per-year.
Faizal, after scoring 12 goals and being named the Best Player in the Singapore World League, refused to attend training since because promises made by certain MHC officials were never realised.
An official who is close to Fazial said: "He is a very good player, but has been disillusioned since promises were broken after the World League Semi-finals in Johor Baru. Some quarters promised the team the sky if they qualified for the World Cup, but were no where to be seen or heard after Malaysia finished fifth and qualified for the Netherlands World Cup.
"Players, umpires and even officials are in a quandary as they have not received their match bonuses and allowances for a long time," lamented an official.
The financial situation of the MHC is really in dire states, as even state affiliates have not received participation subsidy of RM3,000 each for the Raja Noora Ashikin Cup in November.
Faizal has agreed to turn up for training on Wednesday to join his mates as they get ready for the Azlan Shah Cup in April, but if money still does not reach their pockets, more players might just turn their backs on Malaysia.
Joining the chorus were four Malaysia Hockey League (MHL) semi-finalists, as they too have yet to receive their TNB Cup winnings -- even though the finals were held in December last year.
And Faizal Saari is also said to have jumped ship after the Singapore World League Round Two, as he and his team-mates have been promised cash incentives since qualifying for the World Cup, but have yet to see the money.
"We have been waiting for a long time as we have only received empty promises when ever we called to inquire about our allowances for the MHL. Each umpire and official are waiting for at least RM3,000 and there are 50 of us on the empty promises list," said an official who declined to be named.
Terengganu Hockey Team, who won the TNB Cup, are still awaiting for their RM70,000. The same goes for runners-up Kuala Lumpur Hockey Club (RM50,000), bronze medallists Tenaga Nasional (RM40,000) and fourth placed Maybank (RM30,000).
The TNB CUP roll of honour is also still not honoured, as THT players Fitri Saari (best player of the final), Faizal Saari (top-scored, 17 goals) and Hafizuddin Othman (best goalkeeper) were supposed to receive RM2,000 each.
Tenaga are the title sponsors for MHL and other domestic tournaments, to the tune of RM2 million per-year.
Faizal, after scoring 12 goals and being named the Best Player in the Singapore World League, refused to attend training since because promises made by certain MHC officials were never realised.
An official who is close to Fazial said: "He is a very good player, but has been disillusioned since promises were broken after the World League Semi-finals in Johor Baru. Some quarters promised the team the sky if they qualified for the World Cup, but were no where to be seen or heard after Malaysia finished fifth and qualified for the Netherlands World Cup.
"Players, umpires and even officials are in a quandary as they have not received their match bonuses and allowances for a long time," lamented an official.
The financial situation of the MHC is really in dire states, as even state affiliates have not received participation subsidy of RM3,000 each for the Raja Noora Ashikin Cup in November.
Faizal has agreed to turn up for training on Wednesday to join his mates as they get ready for the Azlan Shah Cup in April, but if money still does not reach their pockets, more players might just turn their backs on Malaysia.
Monday, February 16, 2015
AGAIN: Faizal playing hide-and-seek with coach..
FAIZAL Saari is back at his worst.
After scoring 12 goals, and being named as the best player in the Singapore World League Round Two Faizal has failed to show up for a single training session, and even coach Tai Beng Hai has no idea where he is.
And this is not the first time the striker has gone Awol from national duty, or been in trouble with the coaching set up. After the World Cup, he was dropped from the Commonwealth as well as Asian Games squad for his erratic bahavior.
"I have not been able to contact Faizal since we returned from Singapore, and yes, he has not attended any training or returned calls made to him," said Beng Hai.
Malaysia are currently playing a series of friendlies against Egypt at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil.
When contacted Faizal answered his hand phone: "I'm busy and can't talk," was all he said before hanging up.
After Singapore, Faizal did say that he has received an offer to play in Division Two of the German league, but it is only starting in March.
"I have tried contacting Faizal many times, but he did not answer my calls and I do not know where he is or what are his plans. Anyway, we are playing against Egypt today (yesterday) as early preparations for the Azlan Shah Cup said Beng Hai.
Against Egypt Malaysia lost 3-1 and won the second 2-1: "I fielded 11 who did not play in Singapore to give them some playing time ahead of Azlan Shah selections.
"The results against Egypt does not matter, as I test fringe players," said Beng Hai.
Results do not matter but fitness does, as a recent test conducted showed that all the players were at a very low level. Infact, the Malaysian men's fitness level are even even below that of a women's team in a neighbouring country.
When Beng Hai was told about this fact he was surprised.
"Really? A test was conducted after we returned from Singapore but I have yet to see the results, so I can't comment on this issue yet," said Beng Hai.
The Azlan Shah Cup will be held in Ipoh on April 5-12, and Malaysia have world No 1 Australia, India, New Zealand, South Korea and Canada for company.
Malaysia's top assignment this year is the World League Semi-Finals in June which is a qualifier for the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics.
Meanwhile, The Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) will hold their Council Meeting on March 7, EGM on March 22 and AGM on May 13.
1MAS Tampin and Perlis raring for action..
NEW success stories are few and far between in the MHC-Milo-NHC Junior Hockey League, so the progress of two 1Mas teams into the Division Two play-offs have got some excited.
Division One, as predicted turned out to be another Thunderbolts success story as they are virtually assured of the League title, while the Milo Cup also looks to be theirs for the taking.
And if the former Bandar Penawar Sports School, now named Tengku Mahkota Ismail Sports School (SSTMI) play to form, this season would see them win the double for the fourth consecutive year.
UniKL and Petaling Jaya City Council (PJCC) will again play the bridesmaid, and the Best Man at Thunderbolts party.
However, development sides 1MAS TBSS Tampin and 1MAS Perlis are out to measure themselves with teams from other regions in the Division Two, playoffs which starts on Feb 26.
Both are hoping to finish in the top-two bracket, in order to play in the Milo Cup, where they will compete against the top four from Division One.
The six teams from Division Two have qualified for the play-off are Nurinsafi-PHA, 1Mas TBSS Tampin, MSNT-THT, 1 MAS Perlis, BJSS Juniors, SMKDBL Johor HA.
Teams from Perlis (Y), Penang (X), Terengganu (Y), Kuala Lumpur (X), Johor (Y) and Negri Sembilan (X) have been placed in two groups of X and Y and they will play all their matches in Kuala Lumpur.
The top two teams from Group X and Y will then join the top 4 teams of Division One for the overall Milo Cup knockout stage which will be played on a home and away basis. The final is on March 15.
For 1MAS Perlis, it is their first time venturing out of the Northern region group: "Our players 16 and 17-year-olds, and I'm proud and satisfied that the team is finally coming good since being together for the last three years," said team manager Badrisham Che Yob.
"We were close to qualifying for the Division Two playoffs for the last two years but were knocked out on goal difference.
"I told the boys that since we are in the second round, let's go one step better. The boys are looking confident and the exposure will be great."
1MAS TBSS Tampin team manager M. Vivekananda said the play-offs provides a chance to gauge his players better. They play Nurinsafi-Penang Hockey on Feb 26.
"The earlier round felt like a district tournament as we only played Southern teams. The playoff allows us to measure ourselves against teams from the North and East Coast," he said.
"The first match will be tough. Our team is made up of schoolboys while there are some seasoned players in Nur Insafi, who were doing great in the Northern region."
The four Division One teams for the Milo Cup are champions-elect SSTMI Thunderbolts, UniKL, PJCC and SSP-MSP-Thunderbolt.
UniKL and PJCC go head-on on Feb 27 in a winner take-all battle for second spot in the league.
Division One, as predicted turned out to be another Thunderbolts success story as they are virtually assured of the League title, while the Milo Cup also looks to be theirs for the taking.
And if the former Bandar Penawar Sports School, now named Tengku Mahkota Ismail Sports School (SSTMI) play to form, this season would see them win the double for the fourth consecutive year.
UniKL and Petaling Jaya City Council (PJCC) will again play the bridesmaid, and the Best Man at Thunderbolts party.
However, development sides 1MAS TBSS Tampin and 1MAS Perlis are out to measure themselves with teams from other regions in the Division Two, playoffs which starts on Feb 26.
Both are hoping to finish in the top-two bracket, in order to play in the Milo Cup, where they will compete against the top four from Division One.
The six teams from Division Two have qualified for the play-off are Nurinsafi-PHA, 1Mas TBSS Tampin, MSNT-THT, 1 MAS Perlis, BJSS Juniors, SMKDBL Johor HA.
Teams from Perlis (Y), Penang (X), Terengganu (Y), Kuala Lumpur (X), Johor (Y) and Negri Sembilan (X) have been placed in two groups of X and Y and they will play all their matches in Kuala Lumpur.
The top two teams from Group X and Y will then join the top 4 teams of Division One for the overall Milo Cup knockout stage which will be played on a home and away basis. The final is on March 15.
For 1MAS Perlis, it is their first time venturing out of the Northern region group: "Our players 16 and 17-year-olds, and I'm proud and satisfied that the team is finally coming good since being together for the last three years," said team manager Badrisham Che Yob.
"We were close to qualifying for the Division Two playoffs for the last two years but were knocked out on goal difference.
"I told the boys that since we are in the second round, let's go one step better. The boys are looking confident and the exposure will be great."
1MAS TBSS Tampin team manager M. Vivekananda said the play-offs provides a chance to gauge his players better. They play Nurinsafi-Penang Hockey on Feb 26.
"The earlier round felt like a district tournament as we only played Southern teams. The playoff allows us to measure ourselves against teams from the North and East Coast," he said.
"The first match will be tough. Our team is made up of schoolboys while there are some seasoned players in Nur Insafi, who were doing great in the Northern region."
The four Division One teams for the Milo Cup are champions-elect SSTMI Thunderbolts, UniKL, PJCC and SSP-MSP-Thunderbolt.
UniKL and PJCC go head-on on Feb 27 in a winner take-all battle for second spot in the league.
Sunday, February 15, 2015
UniKL step closer to second spot..
UNIKL Young Guns kept their hopes alove of finishing second in Division One of the MHC-Milo-NSC Junior Hockey League when they edged SSTMI Juniors 2-1 in Johor Baru.
Hafif Elkan (23rd) and Nur Faiz Rosli (32nd) made sure for UniKL while SSTMI Juniors skipper Nurasyraf Rosli narrowed the gap in the 41st minute but the University side held on for full points.
UniKL are now second on the standings behind Petaling Jaya City Council (PJCC) and both the teams square off next week to decide the second spot.
Defending champions Thunderbolts are clear favourites for the title as they meet their juniors in the final league fixture.
Meanwhile, six teams from Division Two have qualified for the play-off and they are Nurinsafi-PHA, 1Mas TBSS Tampin, MSNT-THT, 1 MAS Perlis, BJSS Juniors, SMKDBL Johor HA.
And interestingly all six are from different states, while powerhouse Perak failed to get any of their five Division Two teams inoto the play-offs.
Teams from Perlis (Y), Penang (X), Terengganu (Y), Kuala Lumpur (X), Johor (Y) and Negri Sembilan (X) have been placed in two groups of X and Y and they will play all their matches in Kuala Lumpur.
The top two teams from Group X and Y will then join the top 4 teams of Division One for the overall Milo Cup knockout stage which will be played on a home and away basis. The final is on March 15.
RESULTS -- Division One: KLHC 0 BJSS 1, SSP-MSP-Thunderbolts 2 Politeknik Malaysia 0, SSTMI Juniors 1 UniKL Young Guns 2.
Division Two Group C: 1Mas Johor 0 SMK Tun Hussien Onn 2.
DIVISION ONE
P W D L F A Pts
THUNDERBOLTS 7 6 1 0 29 9 19
UNIKL 7 6 0 1 29 10 18
PJCC 7 5 2 0 22 7 17
PSS T'DERBOLTS 7 4 0 3 16 13 12
KLSS-KLHC 7 2 2 3 9 11 8
OLAK 8 2 0 6 10 27 6
POLITEKNIK 7 1 1 5 6 17 4
BJSS 6 2 0 4 6 16 6
SSTMI JNR 6 0 0 6 3 20 0
Hafif Elkan (23rd) and Nur Faiz Rosli (32nd) made sure for UniKL while SSTMI Juniors skipper Nurasyraf Rosli narrowed the gap in the 41st minute but the University side held on for full points.
UniKL are now second on the standings behind Petaling Jaya City Council (PJCC) and both the teams square off next week to decide the second spot.
Defending champions Thunderbolts are clear favourites for the title as they meet their juniors in the final league fixture.
Meanwhile, six teams from Division Two have qualified for the play-off and they are Nurinsafi-PHA, 1Mas TBSS Tampin, MSNT-THT, 1 MAS Perlis, BJSS Juniors, SMKDBL Johor HA.
And interestingly all six are from different states, while powerhouse Perak failed to get any of their five Division Two teams inoto the play-offs.
Teams from Perlis (Y), Penang (X), Terengganu (Y), Kuala Lumpur (X), Johor (Y) and Negri Sembilan (X) have been placed in two groups of X and Y and they will play all their matches in Kuala Lumpur.
The top two teams from Group X and Y will then join the top 4 teams of Division One for the overall Milo Cup knockout stage which will be played on a home and away basis. The final is on March 15.
RESULTS -- Division One: KLHC 0 BJSS 1, SSP-MSP-Thunderbolts 2 Politeknik Malaysia 0, SSTMI Juniors 1 UniKL Young Guns 2.
Division Two Group C: 1Mas Johor 0 SMK Tun Hussien Onn 2.
DIVISION ONE
P W D L F A Pts
THUNDERBOLTS 7 6 1 0 29 9 19
UNIKL 7 6 0 1 29 10 18
PJCC 7 5 2 0 22 7 17
PSS T'DERBOLTS 7 4 0 3 16 13 12
KLSS-KLHC 7 2 2 3 9 11 8
OLAK 8 2 0 6 10 27 6
POLITEKNIK 7 1 1 5 6 17 4
BJSS 6 2 0 4 6 16 6
SSTMI JNR 6 0 0 6 3 20 0
Saturday, February 14, 2015
PJCC drop two points..
PETALING Jaya City Council (PJCC) dropped two crucial points when they drew 1-1 with KL Sports School in Division One of the MHC-Milo-NSC Junior Hockey League at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil yesterday.
The draw put paid to their quest of finishing second in the League, as UniKL with two matches in hand are snapping at their heels.
PJCC's haikal Zanri gave them the lead in the eighth minute, but KLSS drew level off a Hariz Syazani goal in the 33rd minute and held on for the remainder of the match.
In another Division One match, Olak PKT Tigers claimed their second win of the tournament when they beat Politreknik 1-0 with an Ammirul Hafiz goal in the 54th minute.
Double champions Thunderbolts are champions in waiting as they only have one more match against their juniors next weekend to seal the title.
PJCC team manager Zanal Abidin rued their missed sitters: "We had many chances to seal three points but failed to convert. Now we only have an outside chance of finishing second, provided we win our final match against UniKL (next Friday). But I believe its going to be a tough match going by UniKL's form this season."
RESULTS -- Division One: PJCC 1 KLSS 1, Olak PKT Tigers 1 Politeknik 0.
Division Two Group A: SM Sains 0 1MAS Pahang 4, BJSS Jnrs 4 MSNT-THT 1.
Group B: MSS Kedah 0 ISMO PHA 6, Nur Insafi PHA 0 1Mas Perlis 3, Larut matang 0 1Mas Penang 13.
Group C: Datuk Taha 0 1Mas Malacca 10, SMSJ Kinghts 4 1Mas TBSS 6.
TODAY -- Division One: KLHC v BJSS (KLHA), SSP-MSP-Thunderbolts v Politeknik Malaysia (Temerloh), SSTMI Juniors v UniKL Young Guns (Taman Daya).
Division Two Group C: 1Mas Johor v SMK Tun Hussien Onn (Batu Pahat).
Note: All matches at 4.45pm.
DIVISION ONE
P W D L F A Pts
THUNDERBOLTS 7 6 1 0 29 9 19
PJCC 7 5 2 0 22 7 17
UNIKL 6 5 0 1 27 9 15
PSS T'DERBOLTS 6 3 0 3 14 13 9
KLSS-KLHC 6 2 2 2 9 10 8
OLAK 8 2 0 6 10 27 6
POLITEKNIK 6 1 1 4 6 15 4
BJSS 5 1 0 4 5 16 3
SSTMI JNR 5 0 0 5 2 18 0
The draw put paid to their quest of finishing second in the League, as UniKL with two matches in hand are snapping at their heels.
PJCC's haikal Zanri gave them the lead in the eighth minute, but KLSS drew level off a Hariz Syazani goal in the 33rd minute and held on for the remainder of the match.
In another Division One match, Olak PKT Tigers claimed their second win of the tournament when they beat Politreknik 1-0 with an Ammirul Hafiz goal in the 54th minute.
Double champions Thunderbolts are champions in waiting as they only have one more match against their juniors next weekend to seal the title.
PJCC team manager Zanal Abidin rued their missed sitters: "We had many chances to seal three points but failed to convert. Now we only have an outside chance of finishing second, provided we win our final match against UniKL (next Friday). But I believe its going to be a tough match going by UniKL's form this season."
RESULTS -- Division One: PJCC 1 KLSS 1, Olak PKT Tigers 1 Politeknik 0.
Division Two Group A: SM Sains 0 1MAS Pahang 4, BJSS Jnrs 4 MSNT-THT 1.
Group B: MSS Kedah 0 ISMO PHA 6, Nur Insafi PHA 0 1Mas Perlis 3, Larut matang 0 1Mas Penang 13.
Group C: Datuk Taha 0 1Mas Malacca 10, SMSJ Kinghts 4 1Mas TBSS 6.
TODAY -- Division One: KLHC v BJSS (KLHA), SSP-MSP-Thunderbolts v Politeknik Malaysia (Temerloh), SSTMI Juniors v UniKL Young Guns (Taman Daya).
Division Two Group C: 1Mas Johor v SMK Tun Hussien Onn (Batu Pahat).
Note: All matches at 4.45pm.
DIVISION ONE
P W D L F A Pts
THUNDERBOLTS 7 6 1 0 29 9 19
PJCC 7 5 2 0 22 7 17
UNIKL 6 5 0 1 27 9 15
PSS T'DERBOLTS 6 3 0 3 14 13 9
KLSS-KLHC 6 2 2 2 9 10 8
OLAK 8 2 0 6 10 27 6
POLITEKNIK 6 1 1 4 6 15 4
BJSS 5 1 0 4 5 16 3
SSTMI JNR 5 0 0 5 2 18 0
Friday, February 13, 2015
UniKL fail to stop Thunderbolts..
DOUBLE champions Thunderbolts reaffirmed their pedigree when they beat UniKL Young Guns 4-2 to keep their grip on the Division One title in the MHC-Milo-NSC Junior Hockey League.
They have one more match against their juniors next week, where three points are assured, and the match will come with the League title as well.
Playing at home at the Taman Daya Stadium in Johor Baru, Thunderbolts were given an early scare when UniKL's Badrul Amin scored a field goal in the 16th minute.
However, the champions equalsied off a penalty stroke converted by Danial Asyraf in the 22nd minute and then took the lead off a Shello Silverius field goal in the 34th minute.
UniKL drew level in the 45th minute off a S. Deveandren penalty stroke, but Thunderbolts scored two more off Danial (52nd) and Firdaus Omar 64th to seal the match.
Thunderbolts coach Wan Roslan Wan Rahman said: “I didn’t know what to expect from my players today (yesterday) after a poor performance last week. My message to them was to get out there and take the game to UniKL and they did it perfectly,”
“We still have one more game before we can confirm the title so I will have to ensure that my players remain focused on what needs to be done.”
RESULTS -- Division One: Thunderbolts 4 UniKL Young Guns 2, Olak PKT Tigers 2 PJCC 5, BJSS 1 SSP/MSP/Thunderbolt 2.
Division Two: Sek Tunku Abdul Rahman 5 1MAS Pahang 1, KLSS 1 MSNT-PHT 1, 1MAS Penang 1 SM Agama Matri 3, SMK Tun Hussein Onn 3 1MAS TBBS Tampin 3, SMK Datuk Taha 1 SMKDBL 9.
TODAY -- Division One: PJCC v KLHC (National Stadium I), Olak PKT Tigers v Politeknik (National Stadium II).
Division Two Group A: SM Sains v 1MAS Pahang (Azlan Shah Stadium), BJSS Jnrs v MSNT-THT (Ministry of Education).
Group B: MSS Kedah v ISMO PHA (Padang Serai), Nur Insafi PHA v 1Mas Perlis (Sungai Petani), Larut matang v 1Mas Penang (Kuala Kangsar).
Group C: Datuk Taha v 1Mas Malacca (Seremban II), SMSJ Kinghts v 1Mas TBSS Tampin (Batu Pahat).
Note: All matches at 4.45pm.
DIVISION ONE
P W D L F A Pts
THUNDERBOLTS 7 6 1 0 29 9 19
PJCC 6 5 1 0 21 6 16
UNIKL 6 5 0 1 27 9 15
PSS T'DERBOLTS 6 3 0 3 14 13 9
KLSS-KHC 5 2 1 2 8 9 7
POLITEKNIK 5 1 1 3 6 14 4
BJSS 5 1 0 4 5 16 3
OLAK 7 1 0 6 9 27 3
SSTMI JNR 5 0 0 5 2 18 0
They have one more match against their juniors next week, where three points are assured, and the match will come with the League title as well.
Playing at home at the Taman Daya Stadium in Johor Baru, Thunderbolts were given an early scare when UniKL's Badrul Amin scored a field goal in the 16th minute.
However, the champions equalsied off a penalty stroke converted by Danial Asyraf in the 22nd minute and then took the lead off a Shello Silverius field goal in the 34th minute.
UniKL drew level in the 45th minute off a S. Deveandren penalty stroke, but Thunderbolts scored two more off Danial (52nd) and Firdaus Omar 64th to seal the match.
Thunderbolts coach Wan Roslan Wan Rahman said: “I didn’t know what to expect from my players today (yesterday) after a poor performance last week. My message to them was to get out there and take the game to UniKL and they did it perfectly,”
“We still have one more game before we can confirm the title so I will have to ensure that my players remain focused on what needs to be done.”
RESULTS -- Division One: Thunderbolts 4 UniKL Young Guns 2, Olak PKT Tigers 2 PJCC 5, BJSS 1 SSP/MSP/Thunderbolt 2.
Division Two: Sek Tunku Abdul Rahman 5 1MAS Pahang 1, KLSS 1 MSNT-PHT 1, 1MAS Penang 1 SM Agama Matri 3, SMK Tun Hussein Onn 3 1MAS TBBS Tampin 3, SMK Datuk Taha 1 SMKDBL 9.
TODAY -- Division One: PJCC v KLHC (National Stadium I), Olak PKT Tigers v Politeknik (National Stadium II).
Division Two Group A: SM Sains v 1MAS Pahang (Azlan Shah Stadium), BJSS Jnrs v MSNT-THT (Ministry of Education).
Group B: MSS Kedah v ISMO PHA (Padang Serai), Nur Insafi PHA v 1Mas Perlis (Sungai Petani), Larut matang v 1Mas Penang (Kuala Kangsar).
Group C: Datuk Taha v 1Mas Malacca (Seremban II), SMSJ Kinghts v 1Mas TBSS Tampin (Batu Pahat).
Note: All matches at 4.45pm.
DIVISION ONE
P W D L F A Pts
THUNDERBOLTS 7 6 1 0 29 9 19
PJCC 6 5 1 0 21 6 16
UNIKL 6 5 0 1 27 9 15
PSS T'DERBOLTS 6 3 0 3 14 13 9
KLSS-KHC 5 2 1 2 8 9 7
POLITEKNIK 5 1 1 3 6 14 4
BJSS 5 1 0 4 5 16 3
OLAK 7 1 0 6 9 27 3
SSTMI JNR 5 0 0 5 2 18 0
FumingMHC president calls off AGM..
A FUMING Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah took only six minutes to call off the Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Kuala Lumpur Friday.
The delegates, as well as Sports Commissioner Datuk Zaiton Othman were all suited up, but Tengku Abdullah did not wear the MHC blazer as he was ashamed of it.
He also gave a new name the MHC -- Malaysian Hockey Confrontation.
"As you can see I did not wear the MHC blazer as I'm ashamed of all that has been happening leading to the AGM and elections, we should now call it the MHC Malaysian Hockey Confrontation.
"The AGM is postponed and we will start again by holding a council meeting in the first week of March to set the date for a re-look at the constitution as well as other matters," said Tengku Abdullah.
He also warned the delegates not to bring disrepute to the MHC, which indirectly affects him: "I'm going to contest in FIFA (for Executive Board member) and don't bring disrepute to the MHC any more."
One delegate summed it up when he said: :I drove for six hours and attended a six minute meeting."
The mess was created after a hap-hazard EOGM in Johor Baru last October, where delegates voted to amend their constitution, but most of the proposed amendments were against the governing body's
"When I took over the Confederation, I did not know anybody except for the Pahang HA secretary, bity slowly I got to know everybody and had a comfortable stay. But recently, I am shocked with the tenacity of some members and am on a peace mission today (yesterday).
"Malaysian hockey is ranked 12th in the world and not over 20. So lets behave like professionals and not behave like children. We need to uphold the dignity of the Confederation in the eyes of the world and towards that lets start by holding a council meeting.
"This will be followed by amendments to the constitution, and from what I read the FIH wants gender equity not equality, so we need the same number from the women and men. If agreed, we can have two deputy presidents' so solve the issue.
" We have a woeld class team, so lets behave like a world class organisation and resolve all issues amicably.
"And with tomorrow (today) being Valentines Day, I propose that all of us holds hands and forgive and forget what happened.
"This will be my last speech for hockey, as I expect everything to be sorted out with the FIH and also the Sports Commissioner by May.
"I hereby declare that there will be no AGM today (yesterday) simply because some stakeholders are in dispute."
Meanwhile, Tai Beng Hai will remain chief coach for the Azlan Shah Cup on May 5-12, while Neil Hawgood will continue as consultant.
The delegates, as well as Sports Commissioner Datuk Zaiton Othman were all suited up, but Tengku Abdullah did not wear the MHC blazer as he was ashamed of it.
He also gave a new name the MHC -- Malaysian Hockey Confrontation.
"As you can see I did not wear the MHC blazer as I'm ashamed of all that has been happening leading to the AGM and elections, we should now call it the MHC Malaysian Hockey Confrontation.
"The AGM is postponed and we will start again by holding a council meeting in the first week of March to set the date for a re-look at the constitution as well as other matters," said Tengku Abdullah.
He also warned the delegates not to bring disrepute to the MHC, which indirectly affects him: "I'm going to contest in FIFA (for Executive Board member) and don't bring disrepute to the MHC any more."
One delegate summed it up when he said: :I drove for six hours and attended a six minute meeting."
The mess was created after a hap-hazard EOGM in Johor Baru last October, where delegates voted to amend their constitution, but most of the proposed amendments were against the governing body's
"When I took over the Confederation, I did not know anybody except for the Pahang HA secretary, bity slowly I got to know everybody and had a comfortable stay. But recently, I am shocked with the tenacity of some members and am on a peace mission today (yesterday).
"Malaysian hockey is ranked 12th in the world and not over 20. So lets behave like professionals and not behave like children. We need to uphold the dignity of the Confederation in the eyes of the world and towards that lets start by holding a council meeting.
"This will be followed by amendments to the constitution, and from what I read the FIH wants gender equity not equality, so we need the same number from the women and men. If agreed, we can have two deputy presidents' so solve the issue.
" We have a woeld class team, so lets behave like a world class organisation and resolve all issues amicably.
"And with tomorrow (today) being Valentines Day, I propose that all of us holds hands and forgive and forget what happened.
"This will be my last speech for hockey, as I expect everything to be sorted out with the FIH and also the Sports Commissioner by May.
"I hereby declare that there will be no AGM today (yesterday) simply because some stakeholders are in dispute."
Meanwhile, Tai Beng Hai will remain chief coach for the Azlan Shah Cup on May 5-12, while Neil Hawgood will continue as consultant.
Thursday, February 12, 2015
Poor MHC officials can't even pay attention..
By Jugjet Singh
jugjet@hotmail.com
COMMENT
THE Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) is so poor, that their officials can't even afford to pay attention.
MHC will be holding their Annual General Meeting Friday in Kuala Lumpur, but bungling and arrogant officials have made a mockery out of a simple procedure because they never paid attention.
It all started after a messed-up EOGM was held in Johor Baru last October, where even the minutes were not written, while proposals were bulldozed by a handful of selfish officials who were chasing for higher posts in the MHC.
It was never an EOGM, but a party for hungry Hyenas who tore the constitution to tatters and brought world-wide shame to former Malaysian Hockey Federation (MHF) officials who were champions of their own league when it came to organising tournaments and meetings of the highest levels.
The old constitution (amended 12 Dec 2011) specifically followed the International Hockey Federation's (FIH) demand on a merger between the men and women's hockey Federations around the world and equal number of posts be allotted for both genders.
Then, it was agreed that the president and deputy president's posts must be held rotationally between man and woman.
However, there was an unwritten agreement that the president will be a man while the deputy a woman, and there was no problem at all -- until somebody wanted a bigger share of the cake.
In the JB EOGM, the women had even proposed to have two deputy presidents' as a compromise, but the proposal was bulldozed as somebody was confident that he can take over the post, by amending the constitution blind-folded.
From 12 veeps, one from each gender as senior, and five each for men and women -- the amendment proposed only seven veeps. Two for women and five for men. And the deputy president's post was opened for election and no longer reserved for the women.
So blind were those who approved the EOGM amendments, that they forgot that there is somebody watching them from above, and has the final say on how to govern the confederations around the world.
The FIH were in a fiery mood as they rejected the EOGM amendments and proposed changes to bring back matters to status quo.
FIH, in a letter dated Nov 17, and signed by CEO Kelly Fairweather, has stated that it did not agree to eight issues in the draft submitted by the MHC on amendments made to the MHC constitution during its EOGM in JB.
Among them were: Fairweather wrote: “In particular I have to point out that the new proposed amended statutes do not -
1) Have provisions for the suspension of members.
2) Have provisions for indemnity of officials.
3) Have an age limit for elections.
4) Have a limit on the number of times a person may be elected to a particular office.
5) Have provisions for gender equality.
AGAIN, the MHC were adamant that they were right and bulldozed the amendments through the then Sports Commissioner Datuk Ahmad Shapawi Ismail, who initially approved the amendments with the exception of Article 23 which governs the composition of the office bearers.
Shapawi left for greener pastures as director of the Natonal Sports Council and in came former athlete Datuk Zaiton Othman.
As swift as she was off the blocks during her running days, she issued a stern letter to the MHC -- telling them to toe the FIH line, or face the music in a short and simple letter.
But still, MHC officials including the administrative side, refused to take off their blind-folds as their understanding of the law was so poor, that even if a sledge hammer was used, it will still not go in their thick minds.
In the end, the Sports Commissioner issued another letter -- this time stating that the old constitution MUST be used if elections are to be held Friday.
But the talk among thick officials along the corridors until yesterday is that they would rather commit hara-kiri of the MHC, than pay attention.
(Defying FIH has its consequences as the Indian Hockey Federation found out when they lost their affiliation with the world body and replaced by Hockey India).
jugjet@hotmail.com
COMMENT
THE Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) is so poor, that their officials can't even afford to pay attention.
MHC will be holding their Annual General Meeting Friday in Kuala Lumpur, but bungling and arrogant officials have made a mockery out of a simple procedure because they never paid attention.
It all started after a messed-up EOGM was held in Johor Baru last October, where even the minutes were not written, while proposals were bulldozed by a handful of selfish officials who were chasing for higher posts in the MHC.
It was never an EOGM, but a party for hungry Hyenas who tore the constitution to tatters and brought world-wide shame to former Malaysian Hockey Federation (MHF) officials who were champions of their own league when it came to organising tournaments and meetings of the highest levels.
The old constitution (amended 12 Dec 2011) specifically followed the International Hockey Federation's (FIH) demand on a merger between the men and women's hockey Federations around the world and equal number of posts be allotted for both genders.
Then, it was agreed that the president and deputy president's posts must be held rotationally between man and woman.
However, there was an unwritten agreement that the president will be a man while the deputy a woman, and there was no problem at all -- until somebody wanted a bigger share of the cake.
In the JB EOGM, the women had even proposed to have two deputy presidents' as a compromise, but the proposal was bulldozed as somebody was confident that he can take over the post, by amending the constitution blind-folded.
From 12 veeps, one from each gender as senior, and five each for men and women -- the amendment proposed only seven veeps. Two for women and five for men. And the deputy president's post was opened for election and no longer reserved for the women.
So blind were those who approved the EOGM amendments, that they forgot that there is somebody watching them from above, and has the final say on how to govern the confederations around the world.
The FIH were in a fiery mood as they rejected the EOGM amendments and proposed changes to bring back matters to status quo.
FIH, in a letter dated Nov 17, and signed by CEO Kelly Fairweather, has stated that it did not agree to eight issues in the draft submitted by the MHC on amendments made to the MHC constitution during its EOGM in JB.
Among them were: Fairweather wrote: “In particular I have to point out that the new proposed amended statutes do not -
1) Have provisions for the suspension of members.
2) Have provisions for indemnity of officials.
3) Have an age limit for elections.
4) Have a limit on the number of times a person may be elected to a particular office.
5) Have provisions for gender equality.
AGAIN, the MHC were adamant that they were right and bulldozed the amendments through the then Sports Commissioner Datuk Ahmad Shapawi Ismail, who initially approved the amendments with the exception of Article 23 which governs the composition of the office bearers.
Shapawi left for greener pastures as director of the Natonal Sports Council and in came former athlete Datuk Zaiton Othman.
As swift as she was off the blocks during her running days, she issued a stern letter to the MHC -- telling them to toe the FIH line, or face the music in a short and simple letter.
But still, MHC officials including the administrative side, refused to take off their blind-folds as their understanding of the law was so poor, that even if a sledge hammer was used, it will still not go in their thick minds.
In the end, the Sports Commissioner issued another letter -- this time stating that the old constitution MUST be used if elections are to be held Friday.
But the talk among thick officials along the corridors until yesterday is that they would rather commit hara-kiri of the MHC, than pay attention.
(Defying FIH has its consequences as the Indian Hockey Federation found out when they lost their affiliation with the world body and replaced by Hockey India).
Azlan Shah Cup 2015 fixtures
24th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup April 5-12 2015
Participating Teams
Australia
New Zealand
Korea
India
Malaysia
Canada
Date Match Time Match
Sunday 5 April
1 1605 Australia v Canada
2 1805 Korea v India
3 2005 New Zealand v Malaysia
Monday 6 April 4 1605 Canada v Korea
5 1805 New Zealand v India
6 2005 Australia v Malaysia
Tuesday 7 April Rest Day
Wednesday 8 April 7 1605 Canada v New Zealand
8 1805 Korea v Australia 9 2005 India v Malaysia
Thursday 9 April 10 1605 India v Canada
11 1805 New Zealand v Australia
12 2005 Malaysia v Korea
Friday 10 April Rest Day
Saturday 11 April 13 1605 Australia v India
14 1805 Korea v New Zealand
15 2005 Malaysia v Canada
Sunday 12 April 16 1535 5th & 6th Placing
17 1805 3rd & 4th Placing
18 2035 1st & 2nd Placing
Participating Teams
Australia
New Zealand
Korea
India
Malaysia
Canada
Date Match Time Match
Sunday 5 April
1 1605 Australia v Canada
2 1805 Korea v India
3 2005 New Zealand v Malaysia
Monday 6 April 4 1605 Canada v Korea
5 1805 New Zealand v India
6 2005 Australia v Malaysia
Tuesday 7 April Rest Day
Wednesday 8 April 7 1605 Canada v New Zealand
8 1805 Korea v Australia 9 2005 India v Malaysia
Thursday 9 April 10 1605 India v Canada
11 1805 New Zealand v Australia
12 2005 Malaysia v Korea
Friday 10 April Rest Day
Saturday 11 April 13 1605 Australia v India
14 1805 Korea v New Zealand
15 2005 Malaysia v Canada
Sunday 12 April 16 1535 5th & 6th Placing
17 1805 3rd & 4th Placing
18 2035 1st & 2nd Placing
Champs against the wall..
DOUBLE champions SSTMI Thunderbolts can't afford another bungle in Division One of the MHC-Milo-NSC Junior Hockey League when they face UniKL Young Guns at the Taman Daya Stadium in Johor Baru Friday.
For, their 2-2 draw against Petaling Jaya City Council (PJCC), has placed them on a precarious position to defend their League title.
Formerly known as Bandar Penawar Sports School, Thunderbolts top the standings by a point over UniKL, however, the University side have played one match less.
Thunderbolts Coach Wan Roslan Wan Rahman knows only a win will put them in the running for their fourth straight title.
"Jugding from past meetings with UniKL which decided which way the title went, I believe this match will be no different, so we must claim full points to keep the title," said Wan Roslan.
It's not going to be easy for the champions, as they will be missing a few players to injury: "If we lose, we will have to rely on other teams to shave off points from UniKL, and that is not a position my team would want to be after Friday's match."
Meanwhile, the International Hockey Federation (FIH) have approve the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup fixtures which will be held on Apr 5-12 in Ipoh.
The other five teams are Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, India and Canada.
JHL Fixtures -- FRIDAY: Division One: Thunderbolts v UniKL Young Guns (Taman Daya), Olak PKT Tigers v PJCC (National Stadium II), BJSS v SSP/MSP/Thunderbolt (Ministry of Education).
Division Two: Sek Tunku Abdul Rahman v 1MAS Pahang (Azlan Shah), KLSS v MSNT-PHT (Kuala Lumpur HA), 1MAS Penang v SM Agama Matri (Sungai Petani), SMK Tun Hussein Onn v 1MAS TBBS Tampin (Batu Pahat), SMK Datuk Taha v SMKDBL (Seremban II).
Note: All matches at 4.45pm.
For, their 2-2 draw against Petaling Jaya City Council (PJCC), has placed them on a precarious position to defend their League title.
Formerly known as Bandar Penawar Sports School, Thunderbolts top the standings by a point over UniKL, however, the University side have played one match less.
Thunderbolts Coach Wan Roslan Wan Rahman knows only a win will put them in the running for their fourth straight title.
"Jugding from past meetings with UniKL which decided which way the title went, I believe this match will be no different, so we must claim full points to keep the title," said Wan Roslan.
It's not going to be easy for the champions, as they will be missing a few players to injury: "If we lose, we will have to rely on other teams to shave off points from UniKL, and that is not a position my team would want to be after Friday's match."
Meanwhile, the International Hockey Federation (FIH) have approve the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup fixtures which will be held on Apr 5-12 in Ipoh.
The other five teams are Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, India and Canada.
JHL Fixtures -- FRIDAY: Division One: Thunderbolts v UniKL Young Guns (Taman Daya), Olak PKT Tigers v PJCC (National Stadium II), BJSS v SSP/MSP/Thunderbolt (Ministry of Education).
Division Two: Sek Tunku Abdul Rahman v 1MAS Pahang (Azlan Shah), KLSS v MSNT-PHT (Kuala Lumpur HA), 1MAS Penang v SM Agama Matri (Sungai Petani), SMK Tun Hussein Onn v 1MAS TBBS Tampin (Batu Pahat), SMK Datuk Taha v SMKDBL (Seremban II).
Note: All matches at 4.45pm.
Monday, February 9, 2015
Friday the 13 JHL title decider...
DOUBLE champions Thunderbolts will be on a do-or-die mission when they face UniKL Young Guns in what could turn out to be a title deciding weekend of the MHC-MILO-NSC Junior Hockey League.
There was no thunder in the champions when they beat Bukit Jalil Sports School (4-1) and OLAK PKT Tigers (4-1), and this has got coach Wan Roslan Wan Rahman worried.
On the other hand, Young Guns hammered Olak 9-0 and whipped BJSS 6-1 to warm-up for a Friday the 13th clash at the Taman Daya Stadium in Johor Baru with Thunderbolts.
“Yes, we knew that we had UniKL on our radar next week and that could be the deciding match for the title, but still, I told my players to go out there and give it their all and I have to admit they were really below par in both the matches.
“Now I have to ensure that the boys wake up from a poor weekend and be ready to face our title challengers."
UniKL are second in Division One, one point behind Thunderbolts, but they have a game in hand going into the weekend.
UniKL chief coach I. Vickneswaran said: “I think both teams have enough firepower to do the damage when in the semi-circle. My players were really sharp against OLAK, but to carry that form into next week would not be easy, but I believe the boys will give their best again."
The playoffs will see six teams from Division Two – two teams each from Group A, B and C - being split into two groups of three teams, where the top two from each group will then join the top four from Division One to battle it out for the Milo Cup.
Thunderbolts, UniKL and Petaling Jaya City Council are almost assured of a spot in the knock-out while the fourth and final spot for qualification is still an open battle between KLHC, Politeknik Malaysia, BJSS, SSP/MSP/Thunderbolt and OLAK.
There was no thunder in the champions when they beat Bukit Jalil Sports School (4-1) and OLAK PKT Tigers (4-1), and this has got coach Wan Roslan Wan Rahman worried.
On the other hand, Young Guns hammered Olak 9-0 and whipped BJSS 6-1 to warm-up for a Friday the 13th clash at the Taman Daya Stadium in Johor Baru with Thunderbolts.
“Yes, we knew that we had UniKL on our radar next week and that could be the deciding match for the title, but still, I told my players to go out there and give it their all and I have to admit they were really below par in both the matches.
“Now I have to ensure that the boys wake up from a poor weekend and be ready to face our title challengers."
UniKL are second in Division One, one point behind Thunderbolts, but they have a game in hand going into the weekend.
UniKL chief coach I. Vickneswaran said: “I think both teams have enough firepower to do the damage when in the semi-circle. My players were really sharp against OLAK, but to carry that form into next week would not be easy, but I believe the boys will give their best again."
The playoffs will see six teams from Division Two – two teams each from Group A, B and C - being split into two groups of three teams, where the top two from each group will then join the top four from Division One to battle it out for the Milo Cup.
Thunderbolts, UniKL and Petaling Jaya City Council are almost assured of a spot in the knock-out while the fourth and final spot for qualification is still an open battle between KLHC, Politeknik Malaysia, BJSS, SSP/MSP/Thunderbolt and OLAK.
Sunday, February 8, 2015
Thunderbolts losing their script..
DEFENDING champions SSTMI Thunderbolts stayed on course to retaining their MHC-MILO-NSC Junior Hockey League Division One title when they beat OLAK PKT Tigers 4-1 at the National Hockey Stadium yesterday.
However the three points were still not enough to lift them above current league leaders UniKL Young Guns whom they will face next week as they continue to trail them by two points.
After an unconvincing display yesterday, Thunderbolts coach Wan Roslan Wan Rahman said: "I'm very disappointed with today's performance, as the players looked lost and this is not a good sign as we have a big match next week against UniKL."
Shello Silverius put the defending champions ahead in the 12th minute with a field goal before Ammirul Hafiz doubled their lead eight minutes later from a penalty corner.
The second half saw a very sloppy game from both sides, but Thunderbolts managed to squeeze in a third through Luqman Hakim in the 47th minute. Olak pulled one back in the 61st minute through Sheimyrul Azreel, but Thunderbolts swept home their fourth goal of the evening in the 65th minute when Danial Asyraf was on target.
To add misery, Thunderbolts Nik Aiman was flashed a yellow card in the final minute of the match and will miss the crucial clash against UniKL next Friday.
RESULTS -- Division One: OLAK PKT Tigers 1 SSTMI Thunderbolts 4.
Division Two: Group A -- MSNT-PHT 2 1MAS Perak 0.
Group B: 1MAS Perlis 11 MSSD Larut Matang 0, MSS Kedah 2 Nurinsafi-Penang HA 3.
Group C: 1MAS TBSS Tampin 2 SMKDBL 1.
However the three points were still not enough to lift them above current league leaders UniKL Young Guns whom they will face next week as they continue to trail them by two points.
After an unconvincing display yesterday, Thunderbolts coach Wan Roslan Wan Rahman said: "I'm very disappointed with today's performance, as the players looked lost and this is not a good sign as we have a big match next week against UniKL."
Shello Silverius put the defending champions ahead in the 12th minute with a field goal before Ammirul Hafiz doubled their lead eight minutes later from a penalty corner.
The second half saw a very sloppy game from both sides, but Thunderbolts managed to squeeze in a third through Luqman Hakim in the 47th minute. Olak pulled one back in the 61st minute through Sheimyrul Azreel, but Thunderbolts swept home their fourth goal of the evening in the 65th minute when Danial Asyraf was on target.
To add misery, Thunderbolts Nik Aiman was flashed a yellow card in the final minute of the match and will miss the crucial clash against UniKL next Friday.
RESULTS -- Division One: OLAK PKT Tigers 1 SSTMI Thunderbolts 4.
Division Two: Group A -- MSNT-PHT 2 1MAS Perak 0.
Group B: 1MAS Perlis 11 MSSD Larut Matang 0, MSS Kedah 2 Nurinsafi-Penang HA 3.
Group C: 1MAS TBSS Tampin 2 SMKDBL 1.
Danny's focus now on Olympics cut..
FOR a long while, Danny Chia was poised to grab a career first top-10 at the Maybank Malaysian Open on Sunday. Then, the winds threw him off his stride.
Chia closed with a two-over-par 74 at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club to settle for a share of 25th place with amateur Gavin Green, who signed for a 69 as both emerged as the leading local players at the US$3 million showpiece sanctioned by the Asian Tour and European Tour.
The 42-year-old Chia, who is Malaysia’s first winner on the Asian Tour, turned in 34 but staggered home in 40 and a four-under-par 284 total for US$28,950.
“I knew I needed to score on the front nine and I did. I didn’t get through the tough holes very well. I hit quite a number of good shots but it turned into bogeys. Overall I’m still happy with the way I played. At least I was very close of getting what I wanted (top-10),” he said.
“I was confused on the back nine where the wind was blowing. That’s one of the factors why I didn’t play so well. This is definitely one of my best Maybank Malaysian Open performances. I’m sure there will be better performances in the future.”
Chia is now focusing on getting in the Olympics in Rio de Janeiro next year and is targeting to play in as many Asian Tour and Asian Development Tour events for the next 18 months until the qualifying cut off.
With his game now showing signs of returning to its best following a length injury break, he is looking to work hard at achieving his goal.
“There are more things which I need to work on my game. I’m feeling good. I think it is safe to say that I know how to play in the Maybank Malaysian Open now,” said Chia.
“I’m looking forward to the rest of the year because I’m excited with the way I’m playing. There are a lot of room for improvements and this only means that I can get better.
“Where I was two years ago, I’m so happy that I can come back and play golf (after his injury). I’m playing so much better than before. I have to thank God that I can come back and playing good golf.
“I’m now more mature in golf. I’m more experienced and I’m very confident with the way I think on the golf course,” said the 42-year-old.
Chia closed with a two-over-par 74 at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club to settle for a share of 25th place with amateur Gavin Green, who signed for a 69 as both emerged as the leading local players at the US$3 million showpiece sanctioned by the Asian Tour and European Tour.
The 42-year-old Chia, who is Malaysia’s first winner on the Asian Tour, turned in 34 but staggered home in 40 and a four-under-par 284 total for US$28,950.
“I knew I needed to score on the front nine and I did. I didn’t get through the tough holes very well. I hit quite a number of good shots but it turned into bogeys. Overall I’m still happy with the way I played. At least I was very close of getting what I wanted (top-10),” he said.
“I was confused on the back nine where the wind was blowing. That’s one of the factors why I didn’t play so well. This is definitely one of my best Maybank Malaysian Open performances. I’m sure there will be better performances in the future.”
Chia is now focusing on getting in the Olympics in Rio de Janeiro next year and is targeting to play in as many Asian Tour and Asian Development Tour events for the next 18 months until the qualifying cut off.
With his game now showing signs of returning to its best following a length injury break, he is looking to work hard at achieving his goal.
“There are more things which I need to work on my game. I’m feeling good. I think it is safe to say that I know how to play in the Maybank Malaysian Open now,” said Chia.
“I’m looking forward to the rest of the year because I’m excited with the way I’m playing. There are a lot of room for improvements and this only means that I can get better.
“Where I was two years ago, I’m so happy that I can come back and play golf (after his injury). I’m playing so much better than before. I have to thank God that I can come back and playing good golf.
“I’m now more mature in golf. I’m more experienced and I’m very confident with the way I think on the golf course,” said the 42-year-old.
Lahiri's moment..
The 27-year-old Lahiri, who trailed by five strokes heading into the final round, closed with a four-under-par 68 for a 16-under 272 total and claimed the Seagram Trophy which came with a champion’s cheque of US$500,000.
The feat was made possible after the Indian went on a birdy binge in the Third Round by snaring 10 in flawless play.
Wiesberger, with three top-six finishes in his last three starts, started strongly with two opening birdies but a double bogey on five took away his momentum and further bogeys on 12, 15 and 17 meant that he needed to birdie the last hole to force a play-off with Lahiri.
However, the 29-year-old Austrian, who was seeking a fourth career victory, left his birdie attempt from 25 feet short of the hole. His 15-under 273 saw him settle for second best and he pocketed US$333,330.
Englishman Paul Waring (US$168,900) and Spaniard Alejandro Canizares (US$168,900) shared third place on 275 after closing with a 73 and 74 respectively while title holder Lee Westwood of England, who was chasing a record-tying third victory in the Maybank Malaysian Open, failed to challenge as he signed off with a disappointing 75 for tied fifth place (US$99,300) with Asian Tour regulars Richard T. Lee of Canada (71) and American Paul Peterson (72).
Anirban's sixth career Asian Tour victory and first co-sanctioned title on the European Tour is likely to propel him into the world’s top-40, putting him in prime position to qualify for the Masters Tournament in April, the year’s first Major, and also the International Team for the Presidents Cup later this year.
Coming off his career best year where he won twice last year and finished second on the Asian Tour’s Order of Merit, the tenacious Lahiri fought gallantly to reel in overnight leader Wiesberger and then holed an audacious 50-foot birdie putt from off the 17th green which ultimately proved decisive.
“I don’t think it has sunk in just yet but I’m pretty sure when it does, I’ll be pretty happy. This win is very, very special as it’s my first on the European Tour. I think I’ve got a bad habit to make it hard for myself. I’m happy I managed to get it over the line towards as ugly as it was towards the end,” said Anirban.
“I knew Bernd got off to a hot start. I didn’t know how far back I was until the back nine. That was when my caddie pointed out that he had dropped a couple. I knew I was in the hunt and I knew I needed one more birdie to come home.”
Wiesberger was disappointed he failed to hold on to his overnight lead.
“It didn’t quite finished the way I intended to. That’s what golf is. After the hiccup on five, I didn’t hit it anywhere as good as the last 15 rounds. It’s tough to say but it is what it is and unfortunately I beat myself out of it,” said Wiesberger
He rued a miscalculated approach shot on 17 which led to a costly bogey that put him one back with 18 to play.
“I couldn’t believe that wedge on 17 went that far. I don’t know what happened there. Maybe I got the wind wrong,” he said.
“When I hit it (birdie attempt on 18), I knew it was a bit shy. Obviously, it was a big putt and the last thing you wanted was to leave it short. It’s disappointing. I just didn’t trust my swing enough which was good the last couple of weeks. Still a good week. Congrats to Anirban who played a lovely round.”
Meanwhile, the Malaysain Open is set to see a new home next year, as plans are afoot to take it back to its roots -- the Royal Selangor Golf Club -- where it started its humble beginnings in 1962.
Saturday, February 7, 2015
PJCC on course for top-two finish
PETALING Jaya City Council (PJCC) came back from a goal down to beat Politeknik Malaysia 3-1 to claim their fourth win in the MHC-MILO-NSC Junior Hockey League yesterday.
The win places PJCC, who finished third last season, on course for a top two finish, as their only blemish was a 2-2 draw against defending champions Thunderbolts.
In the other Division One match, KLHC edged SSP-MSP-Thunderbolts 3-2.
"As expected it was a tough encounter. We went down first and it was a battle then on to turn the match around," said PJCC team manager Zainal Abidin.
"Fortunately, we managed to find the back of the board three time but they were not easy goals. The commitment from the players is good but there is more than could be done when we play UniKL next month."
Izzuan Halim scored for Politeknik off a penalty corner in the eighth minute but Husaini Bakar (21st), Fakrul Razi (34th) and Haikal Zamri (69th) sealed the win.
PJCC play Olak PKT Tigers next Friday and KLHC the following day.
RESULTS: Division One: Politeknik 1 PJCC 3, KLHC 3 SSP-Thunderbolts 2.
Division Two: Group A -- KLSS 3 Sek Tunku Abdul Rahman 3, BJSS Jnrs 2 SM Sains 1.
Group B: Ismo PHA 13 1MAS Penang 0, MATRI 5 MSSD Larut Matang 1.
Group C: Tun Hussein On 5 SMSJ Knight 1, 1MAS Malacca 12 1MAS Johor 0.
SUNDAY -- Division One: OLAK PKT Tigers v SSTMI Thunderbolts (National Stadium II).
Division Two: Group A -- MSNT-PHT v 1MAS Perak (Kuala Terengganu).
Group B: 1MAS Perlis v MSSD Larut Matang (Perlis), MSS Kedah v Nurinsafi-Penang HA (Padang Serai).
Group C: 1MAS TBSS Tampin v SMKDBL (Seremban II).
Note: All matches at 4.45pm.
The win places PJCC, who finished third last season, on course for a top two finish, as their only blemish was a 2-2 draw against defending champions Thunderbolts.
In the other Division One match, KLHC edged SSP-MSP-Thunderbolts 3-2.
"As expected it was a tough encounter. We went down first and it was a battle then on to turn the match around," said PJCC team manager Zainal Abidin.
"Fortunately, we managed to find the back of the board three time but they were not easy goals. The commitment from the players is good but there is more than could be done when we play UniKL next month."
Izzuan Halim scored for Politeknik off a penalty corner in the eighth minute but Husaini Bakar (21st), Fakrul Razi (34th) and Haikal Zamri (69th) sealed the win.
PJCC play Olak PKT Tigers next Friday and KLHC the following day.
RESULTS: Division One: Politeknik 1 PJCC 3, KLHC 3 SSP-Thunderbolts 2.
Division Two: Group A -- KLSS 3 Sek Tunku Abdul Rahman 3, BJSS Jnrs 2 SM Sains 1.
Group B: Ismo PHA 13 1MAS Penang 0, MATRI 5 MSSD Larut Matang 1.
Group C: Tun Hussein On 5 SMSJ Knight 1, 1MAS Malacca 12 1MAS Johor 0.
SUNDAY -- Division One: OLAK PKT Tigers v SSTMI Thunderbolts (National Stadium II).
Division Two: Group A -- MSNT-PHT v 1MAS Perak (Kuala Terengganu).
Group B: 1MAS Perlis v MSSD Larut Matang (Perlis), MSS Kedah v Nurinsafi-Penang HA (Padang Serai).
Group C: 1MAS TBSS Tampin v SMKDBL (Seremban II).
Note: All matches at 4.45pm.
MHC start damage control..
RACING against time, the Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) officials finally got off their high horse and started damage control to save the elections which are slated for Feb 13.
A day after receiving a 'warning letter' from the Sports Commissioner's office, MHC president Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah called for a meeting in a bid to clean up their constitution mess.
Sports Commissioned Datuk Zaiton Othman had to step in after a heated controvercy on the rights of women in MHC's amended constitution, which was done during an EOGM in Johor Baru in October.
The SC's sent a media statement and gave two suggestions on how the MHC can wrangle themselves out of this mess and the MHC duly followed the instructions.
After yesterday's meeting MHC sent a letter to the SC's office : "With reference to the Sc's decision that the EOGM held last October is null and void due to non compliance of the required quorum.
"Therefore the MHC shall have 1. An EOGM of Feb 13 to discuss the sports commissioner's directive and AGM as well as governing constitution to be used.
"For the 8th AGM of Feb 13, the additional agenda to be included in addition to the earlier agenda stipulated is nominations for MHC offfice bearers and Elections of MHC office bearers."
The letter was signed by Tengku Abdulah and a copy sent to the SC's office.
The action was taken after Zaiton's media statement read: "The Sports Commissioner has made a decision that the Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) Extarordinary General Meeting (EGM) was held in a hap-hazard manner, especially regarding quorum.
The MHC have two avenues to correct this situation
1. Continue with their Annual General Meetion (AGM) on the proposed date of Feb 13 by using the old constitution or..
2. Hold another EGM to discuss amendments with the right quorum.
A day after receiving a 'warning letter' from the Sports Commissioner's office, MHC president Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah called for a meeting in a bid to clean up their constitution mess.
Sports Commissioned Datuk Zaiton Othman had to step in after a heated controvercy on the rights of women in MHC's amended constitution, which was done during an EOGM in Johor Baru in October.
The SC's sent a media statement and gave two suggestions on how the MHC can wrangle themselves out of this mess and the MHC duly followed the instructions.
After yesterday's meeting MHC sent a letter to the SC's office : "With reference to the Sc's decision that the EOGM held last October is null and void due to non compliance of the required quorum.
"Therefore the MHC shall have 1. An EOGM of Feb 13 to discuss the sports commissioner's directive and AGM as well as governing constitution to be used.
"For the 8th AGM of Feb 13, the additional agenda to be included in addition to the earlier agenda stipulated is nominations for MHC offfice bearers and Elections of MHC office bearers."
The letter was signed by Tengku Abdulah and a copy sent to the SC's office.
The action was taken after Zaiton's media statement read: "The Sports Commissioner has made a decision that the Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) Extarordinary General Meeting (EGM) was held in a hap-hazard manner, especially regarding quorum.
The MHC have two avenues to correct this situation
1. Continue with their Annual General Meetion (AGM) on the proposed date of Feb 13 by using the old constitution or..
2. Hold another EGM to discuss amendments with the right quorum.
Austrian Wiesberger is good...
AUSTRIAN Bernd Wiesberger dethroned Englishman Lee Westwood with an amazing nine-under 63 at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club yesterday to claim the sole spot on the leaderboard going into the final round of the Maybank Malaysian Open.
Wiesberger's 17-under 199 was three better than the defending champion's 14-under 202, after Westwood had a third round of three-under 69.
Spaniard Alejandro Canizares is alone on second after a four-under 68 saw his total at 15-under 201.
Tied on third with Westwood is Englishman Paul Waring, who had a seven-under 65.
However, the star performer of the day was Anirban Lahiri of India, who played flawless golf and claimed 10 birdies for a blistering 62, which is the best score of the Open. He moved up from joint-21st to stand alone at fifth. Wiesberger birdied the first five holes and spent the remainder of the round trading blows with Canizares at the top of the leaderboard.
The Spaniard and defending champion Lee Westwood had been three clear of the field at the halfway stage, and when Canizares pitched in at the 16th for eagle he looked set to grab the upper hand.
But Wiesberger holed a 25 footer for birdie on the same hole to recapture a share of the lead, and turned that into a closing hat-trick of gains to reach 17 under par as he seeks a third European Tour title and first since 2012.
"I started really well with five birdies in a row as I caught up with the leaders early which was good and finished off well. It was a great day for me as this is my European Tour record -- I’ve never shot a 63," said Wiesberger.
When asked what was his secret: "Maybe I shouldn’t tell! I’ve been working on the right things which are important for my game. I’ve improved on my putting a lot. I have changed to a different model and it has been working for me. I also have the belief that I can play good golf now.
"And when Alejandro caught up with me towards the end and it seems like a match play situation, I had to catch him quickly. I had to get off to a good start and six birdies in seven holes were good to catch the lead."
And will he be discounting anybody leading into the final?
"I’m not discounting anybody. There was a 62 out there today (yesterday) and there’s probably going to be another 62 out there as well. I had a fast start today and anybody can do that in the final. If I keep playing like this then I have a good chance to take this (title) home. Tomorrow (today) is another day and anything can happen. I’ll try and rest it up and give myself a chance," said the Austrian.
Westwood said he had the wrong song in mind yesterday, and could have done worse if not for the closing birdies on the 17th and 18th.
"I'm three adrift, but it could have been worse if not for the closing birdies. I had the wrong song in mind, and the bogey on the seventh did not help matters.
"However, the way I played today (yesterday) it could have been a worse score, I could’ve easily shot over par, so I’m pleased to have shot 69," said Westwood.
Wiesberger's 17-under 199 was three better than the defending champion's 14-under 202, after Westwood had a third round of three-under 69.
Spaniard Alejandro Canizares is alone on second after a four-under 68 saw his total at 15-under 201.
Tied on third with Westwood is Englishman Paul Waring, who had a seven-under 65.
However, the star performer of the day was Anirban Lahiri of India, who played flawless golf and claimed 10 birdies for a blistering 62, which is the best score of the Open. He moved up from joint-21st to stand alone at fifth. Wiesberger birdied the first five holes and spent the remainder of the round trading blows with Canizares at the top of the leaderboard.
The Spaniard and defending champion Lee Westwood had been three clear of the field at the halfway stage, and when Canizares pitched in at the 16th for eagle he looked set to grab the upper hand.
But Wiesberger holed a 25 footer for birdie on the same hole to recapture a share of the lead, and turned that into a closing hat-trick of gains to reach 17 under par as he seeks a third European Tour title and first since 2012.
"I started really well with five birdies in a row as I caught up with the leaders early which was good and finished off well. It was a great day for me as this is my European Tour record -- I’ve never shot a 63," said Wiesberger.
When asked what was his secret: "Maybe I shouldn’t tell! I’ve been working on the right things which are important for my game. I’ve improved on my putting a lot. I have changed to a different model and it has been working for me. I also have the belief that I can play good golf now.
"And when Alejandro caught up with me towards the end and it seems like a match play situation, I had to catch him quickly. I had to get off to a good start and six birdies in seven holes were good to catch the lead."
And will he be discounting anybody leading into the final?
"I’m not discounting anybody. There was a 62 out there today (yesterday) and there’s probably going to be another 62 out there as well. I had a fast start today and anybody can do that in the final. If I keep playing like this then I have a good chance to take this (title) home. Tomorrow (today) is another day and anything can happen. I’ll try and rest it up and give myself a chance," said the Austrian.
Westwood said he had the wrong song in mind yesterday, and could have done worse if not for the closing birdies on the 17th and 18th.
"I'm three adrift, but it could have been worse if not for the closing birdies. I had the wrong song in mind, and the bogey on the seventh did not help matters.
"However, the way I played today (yesterday) it could have been a worse score, I could’ve easily shot over par, so I’m pleased to have shot 69," said Westwood.
Lahiri's magical birdies...
ANIRBAN Lahiri did an Indian Rope Trick when he fired an amazing 10 birdies in a bogey free round for a super 62 to fly from his overnight joint-21st to lie alone on fifth in the Maybank Malaysian Open yesterday.
Unnoticed after an opening round of 70 followed by a 72 and barely making the weekend cut, the Indian's heroics has placed him in contention for a top-five finish in the US$3million tournament at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club.
His 12-under 204 was a result of super confidence, as the last two days he made 11 birdies but dropped nine shots.
"This (birdy binge) changes the situation in terms of where I stand leding into the final round, but in terms of what I need to do, it’ll be the same thing in the final.
"I’ve been hitting a lot of fairways which is what you need on this course. I think the hall mark today (yesterday) was that I stayed bogey free because the first two days, I made 11 birdies and dropped nine shots so I went back yesterday (Friday) thinking that I’m just making too many mistakes, probably because I’m trying too hard and I just came out here and just relaxed a little bit and I just enjoyed it."
And did he think that he would be in this position at the start of the morning?
"I absolutely did. I knew I was playing well. I knew I had the opportunity to make a move. Start of the day, I would have backed myself to get close to 10-under, not quite so close or past it rather, so I’m quite happy.
"Last couple of days, I was trying too hard to make birdies, trying to make a move. Like I said, I just let go today (yesterday). When I saw a line, I just hit it on the line and took it on merit whether it went in or missed. I was really relaxed on the course, and didn’t really care much on what was happening on the leaderboard. It was nice to go out there to play with freedom and that’s what I’ll try to do tomorrow (final round).
Unnoticed after an opening round of 70 followed by a 72 and barely making the weekend cut, the Indian's heroics has placed him in contention for a top-five finish in the US$3million tournament at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club.
His 12-under 204 was a result of super confidence, as the last two days he made 11 birdies but dropped nine shots.
"This (birdy binge) changes the situation in terms of where I stand leding into the final round, but in terms of what I need to do, it’ll be the same thing in the final.
"I’ve been hitting a lot of fairways which is what you need on this course. I think the hall mark today (yesterday) was that I stayed bogey free because the first two days, I made 11 birdies and dropped nine shots so I went back yesterday (Friday) thinking that I’m just making too many mistakes, probably because I’m trying too hard and I just came out here and just relaxed a little bit and I just enjoyed it."
And did he think that he would be in this position at the start of the morning?
"I absolutely did. I knew I was playing well. I knew I had the opportunity to make a move. Start of the day, I would have backed myself to get close to 10-under, not quite so close or past it rather, so I’m quite happy.
"Last couple of days, I was trying too hard to make birdies, trying to make a move. Like I said, I just let go today (yesterday). When I saw a line, I just hit it on the line and took it on merit whether it went in or missed. I was really relaxed on the course, and didn’t really care much on what was happening on the leaderboard. It was nice to go out there to play with freedom and that’s what I’ll try to do tomorrow (final round).
Friday, February 6, 2015
PJCC demolish SSTMI Juniors
PETALING Jaya City Council (PJCC) demolished SSTMI Juniors 4-0 In Division One of the MHC-MILO-NSC Junior League yesterday, and quickly shifted their attention to today's match against Politeknik Malaysia.
Team manager Zainal Abidin hopes his players will not take the encounter against Politeknik Malaysia he reckoned they are stronger opponents than the Bandar Penawar Sports School's juniors.
"It is a different game altogether as we played against boys today but face older players tomorrow (Saturday)," said Zainal.
"We are in high spirits but must be cautious as I expect Politeknik to give us a tough fight and we must be on our toes or risk dropping points which we can't afford .
"We need another win will to put us back on track in the competition, and the prospects are looking good for now," he said.
PJCC took the lead in the eight minutes through Haikal Zamri while Syaiful Bakri Arzu doubled the lead just before halftime.
Husaini Abu Bakar converted a penalty corner in the 39th minute and Afiq Zulkilfy wrapped up the match in the 50th minute.
In other Division 1 matches, UniKL Young Guns whitewashed Olak PKT Tigers 9-0.
RESULTS
Division 1:
SSTMI Juniors 0 MBPJ 4
BJSS X SSTMI Thunderbolts X
Olak PKT Tigers 0 UniKL Young Guns 9
Division 2:
1MAS Pahang 1 1MAS Perak 0
BJSS Juniors 3 Sekolah Tunku Abdul Rahman 0
Kuala Lumpur Sport School 3 SM Sains Raja Tun Azlan Shah 1
ISMO PHA 1 Nurinsafi / Penang Hockey 3
SMSJ Knight 1 1MAS Melaka 5
1 MAS TBSS Tampin 11 1MAS Johor 0
FIXTURES
SATURDAY
Division One: Politeknik v PJCC ( Taman Daya), KLHC v SSP-Thunderbolts (KLHA, 6pm).
Division Two: Group A -- KLSS v Sek Tunku Abdul Rahman (KLHA, 4pm), BJSS Jnrs v SM Sains (KPM, 4pm).
Group B: Ismo PHA v 1MAS Penang (Azlan Sah, 4.45pm), MATRI v MSSD Larut Matang (Kuala Kangsar, 4.45pm).
Group C:
Tun Hussein On v SMSJ Knight (Batu Pahat, 4.45pm), 1MAS Malacca v 1MAS Johor (MAlacca, 4.45pm).
Team manager Zainal Abidin hopes his players will not take the encounter against Politeknik Malaysia he reckoned they are stronger opponents than the Bandar Penawar Sports School's juniors.
"It is a different game altogether as we played against boys today but face older players tomorrow (Saturday)," said Zainal.
"We are in high spirits but must be cautious as I expect Politeknik to give us a tough fight and we must be on our toes or risk dropping points which we can't afford .
"We need another win will to put us back on track in the competition, and the prospects are looking good for now," he said.
PJCC took the lead in the eight minutes through Haikal Zamri while Syaiful Bakri Arzu doubled the lead just before halftime.
Husaini Abu Bakar converted a penalty corner in the 39th minute and Afiq Zulkilfy wrapped up the match in the 50th minute.
In other Division 1 matches, UniKL Young Guns whitewashed Olak PKT Tigers 9-0.
RESULTS
Division 1:
SSTMI Juniors 0 MBPJ 4
BJSS X SSTMI Thunderbolts X
Olak PKT Tigers 0 UniKL Young Guns 9
Division 2:
1MAS Pahang 1 1MAS Perak 0
BJSS Juniors 3 Sekolah Tunku Abdul Rahman 0
Kuala Lumpur Sport School 3 SM Sains Raja Tun Azlan Shah 1
ISMO PHA 1 Nurinsafi / Penang Hockey 3
SMSJ Knight 1 1MAS Melaka 5
1 MAS TBSS Tampin 11 1MAS Johor 0
FIXTURES
SATURDAY
Division One: Politeknik v PJCC ( Taman Daya), KLHC v SSP-Thunderbolts (KLHA, 6pm).
Division Two: Group A -- KLSS v Sek Tunku Abdul Rahman (KLHA, 4pm), BJSS Jnrs v SM Sains (KPM, 4pm).
Group B: Ismo PHA v 1MAS Penang (Azlan Sah, 4.45pm), MATRI v MSSD Larut Matang (Kuala Kangsar, 4.45pm).
Group C:
Tun Hussein On v SMSJ Knight (Batu Pahat, 4.45pm), 1MAS Malacca v 1MAS Johor (MAlacca, 4.45pm).
Sports Commissioner gets cracking...
SPORTS Commissioned Datuk Zaiton Othman yesterday sent a 'love letter' to the Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) which could derail their plans to hold elections on the eve of Valentines.
At the centre of a heated controvecy is that rights of women have been trampled upon, and the emended constitution does not have provisions that the International Hockey Federation (FIH) demands on women, as equal partners.
The SC's media statement gave two suggestions on how the MHC can wrangle themselves out of this mess, and the early indications are that elections can't be held as scheduled on Feb 13.
Zaiton's media statement read: "The Sports Commissioner has made a decision that the Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) Extarordinary General Meeting (EGM) was held in a hap-hazard manner, especially regarding quorum.
The MHC have two avenues to correct this situation
1. Continue with their Annual General Meetion (AGM) on the proposed date of Feb 13 by using the old constitution or..
2. Hold another EGM to discuss amendments with the right quorum.
The old MHC constitution stated that every state must be represented by a man and a woman during AGM and EGM but that was not followed when the EGM was held in Johor Baru at the end of the year, where amendments were approved.
The old constitution also stated that there must be one senior vice-president from each gender, and 10 vice-presidents made up of five men and five women.
However, the amended constitution did away with that provision and stated that only seven vice-president's will be elected, two of which must be women.
Yesterday, MHC deputy president Puan Sri Raja Noora Ashikin held a press conference to clear the matter before producing the SC's letter.
"Some people have been trying to hide the truth, but the truth can't be hidden and it has surfaced today. I am not mad about positions, but justice must prevail and the right things need to be done so that this matter is brought to rest," said Noora Ashikin.
The deputy president has served under four presidents, starting from Sultan Aslan Shah, and is supposed to be challenged by Datuk Nur Azmi Ahmad for the post on Feb 13.
"I have worked under many presidents and all of them respected the rights of women in this body."
MHC got into trouble for the first time when the FIH, in a letter dated Nov 17, and signed by CEO Kelly Fairweather, has stated that it did not agree to eight issues in the draft submitted by the MHC on amendments made to the MHC constitution during its EGM in Johor Baru in October
Among them were: Fairweather wrote: “In particular I have to point out that the new proposed amended statutes do not - 1) Have provisions for the suspension of members
2) Have provisions for indemnity of officials
3) Have an age limit for elections
4) Have a limit on the number of times a person may be elected to a particular office
5) Have provisions for gender equality
6) Have the new standard FIH anti-doping clause
“Furthermore I note that the governing Executive Board is not
elected democratically but is appointed by the President, which is not in line with FIH governance principles.”
MHC officials, when contacted, distanced themselves from this mess and said their president Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah will make a statement soon.
Thursday, February 5, 2015
Westwood in command...
ENGLISHMAN Lee Westwood continued his love affair with the Maybank Malaysian Open when he opened with a brilliant six-under-par 66 to share the lead with Irishman Graeme McDowell at the Kuala Lumpur Gold and Country Club.
The Englishman fired seven birdies which was matched by his equally impressive Ryder Cup team-mate McDowell at the West Course.
Malaysia's Danny Chia also had a tale to tell, as he held on to his game strongly with a 67 to tie for third with Englishman Tommy Fleetwood and South Korean Kang Sung-Hoon at the US$3 million event sanctioned by the Asian and European Tours.
Westwood put himself in strong position to win the Maybank Malaysian Open for a record-equalling third time after displaying another dominant performance at a venue where he won by seven shots last year.
“I’ll take that. I putted very nicely and started the ball on line well. I left a couple short in the middle when I was fooled by the grain, but overall I’m very happy. It’s probably the toughest I’ve ever seen this golf course play,” said Westwood.
And he only had the win to battle with in the first round as he found the course in similar condition like last season.
"It’s (the course) is in very similar condition. The wind just made it that little bit harder – not the fact it’s blowing particularly hard, but that it’s changing direction. It gets very confusing,” added the Englishman, who is ranked 30th in the world.
McDowell, playing in the Maybank Malaysian Open for the first time since 2008, kept his emotions under control on a humid day. He made only one bogey on the par four sixth hole but battled into contention with two birdies in his closing three holes.
“This morning I was really trying not to over-react to any mistakes I made. It really is too hot to get mad out there, so you have to keep your emotions under control and obviously stay hydrated and cool and try to embrace it,” said McDowell.
Playing in only his second event in 2015, the Northern Irishman fancies his chances of winning his first title this year.
“I work off the course over the winter improving some things physically and in my swing, and things seem to be clicking really well. It is early days, but I’m feeling relaxed and my attitude’s good too. If I can continue that for the rest of the year then good things will come,” he added.
The Englishman fired seven birdies which was matched by his equally impressive Ryder Cup team-mate McDowell at the West Course.
Malaysia's Danny Chia also had a tale to tell, as he held on to his game strongly with a 67 to tie for third with Englishman Tommy Fleetwood and South Korean Kang Sung-Hoon at the US$3 million event sanctioned by the Asian and European Tours.
Westwood put himself in strong position to win the Maybank Malaysian Open for a record-equalling third time after displaying another dominant performance at a venue where he won by seven shots last year.
“I’ll take that. I putted very nicely and started the ball on line well. I left a couple short in the middle when I was fooled by the grain, but overall I’m very happy. It’s probably the toughest I’ve ever seen this golf course play,” said Westwood.
And he only had the win to battle with in the first round as he found the course in similar condition like last season.
"It’s (the course) is in very similar condition. The wind just made it that little bit harder – not the fact it’s blowing particularly hard, but that it’s changing direction. It gets very confusing,” added the Englishman, who is ranked 30th in the world.
McDowell, playing in the Maybank Malaysian Open for the first time since 2008, kept his emotions under control on a humid day. He made only one bogey on the par four sixth hole but battled into contention with two birdies in his closing three holes.
“This morning I was really trying not to over-react to any mistakes I made. It really is too hot to get mad out there, so you have to keep your emotions under control and obviously stay hydrated and cool and try to embrace it,” said McDowell.
Playing in only his second event in 2015, the Northern Irishman fancies his chances of winning his first title this year.
“I work off the course over the winter improving some things physically and in my swing, and things seem to be clicking really well. It is early days, but I’m feeling relaxed and my attitude’s good too. If I can continue that for the rest of the year then good things will come,” he added.
PJCC gunning for full points
PETALING Jaya City Council (PJCC) will be gunning for full points this weekend as they look to close the gap with UniKL in Division One of the MHC-MILO-NSC Junior Hockey League.
As the league heads into the third weekend, UniKL hold the lead with 12 points, while last seasons double champions SSTMI Thunderbolts are hot on their heels with 10 points after four games.
However, PJCC have only played three games thus far and are third with seven points and this leaves them with a slight advantage.
Coach Azlansaufi Ahmad side has had a lengthy break after holding defending champions Thunderbolts 2-2 last Friday as they prepare for SSTMI Juniors today at the Taman Daya Stadium in Johor.
"We have not taken things easy and have been training hard, if the boys can go into tomorrow's match with a proper mindset I think we can come away with all full points.
“This week we play two games in as many days and I have told the players that they will have to be on their toes in JB to ensure that we go into the match against Politeknik with a right mindset.”
Politeknik Malaysia have proven that they are no pushovers as they only lost 4-3 to UniKL.
“Some teams (like Politeknik) tend to get off on a slow start, but they have played two of the strongest teams so far and shown some good signs.
Today will also will see table toppers UniKL host Olak PKT Tigers while BJSS will be in for a torrid time when they go up against Thunderbolts.
TODAY: Division One: SSTMI Juniors v PJCC( Taman Daya Stadium, 4.45pm), BJSS v SSTMI Thunderbolts (Ministry of Education Stadium, 6.45pm), Olak PKT Tigers v UniKL Young Guns (National Stadium II, 4.45pm).
Division Two: 1 MAS Pahang v 1 MAS Perak (Temerloh, 4.45pm), BJSS Juniors v Sekolah Tunku Abdul Rahman (Ministry of Education Stadium, 4.45pm), Kuala Lumpur Sport School v SM Sains Raja Tun Azlan Shah (KLHA Stadium, 4.45pm), ISMO PHA v Nurinsafi / Penang Hockey (Azlan Shah Stadium, 4.45pm), SMSJ Knight v 1 MAS Melaka (Batu Pahat, 4.45pm), 1 MAS TBSS Tampin v 1 MAS Johor (Seremban II, 4.45pm).
Division 1 League Table:
P W L D F A PTS
UniKL Young Guns 4 4 0 0 10 4 12
SSTMI Thunderbolts 4 3 0 1 15 5 10
MBPJ 3 2 0 1 9 3 7
KLHC 4 1 2 1 5 7 4
BJSS JR 3 1 2 0 3 9 3
Politeknik Malaysia 3 1 2 0 5 11 3
SSP/MSP/Thunderbolt 4 1 3 0 10 9 3
Olak PKT Tigers 4 1 3 0 5 9 3
SSTMI Juniors 4 0 4 0 2 14 0
As the league heads into the third weekend, UniKL hold the lead with 12 points, while last seasons double champions SSTMI Thunderbolts are hot on their heels with 10 points after four games.
However, PJCC have only played three games thus far and are third with seven points and this leaves them with a slight advantage.
Coach Azlansaufi Ahmad side has had a lengthy break after holding defending champions Thunderbolts 2-2 last Friday as they prepare for SSTMI Juniors today at the Taman Daya Stadium in Johor.
"We have not taken things easy and have been training hard, if the boys can go into tomorrow's match with a proper mindset I think we can come away with all full points.
“This week we play two games in as many days and I have told the players that they will have to be on their toes in JB to ensure that we go into the match against Politeknik with a right mindset.”
Politeknik Malaysia have proven that they are no pushovers as they only lost 4-3 to UniKL.
“Some teams (like Politeknik) tend to get off on a slow start, but they have played two of the strongest teams so far and shown some good signs.
Today will also will see table toppers UniKL host Olak PKT Tigers while BJSS will be in for a torrid time when they go up against Thunderbolts.
TODAY: Division One: SSTMI Juniors v PJCC( Taman Daya Stadium, 4.45pm), BJSS v SSTMI Thunderbolts (Ministry of Education Stadium, 6.45pm), Olak PKT Tigers v UniKL Young Guns (National Stadium II, 4.45pm).
Division Two: 1 MAS Pahang v 1 MAS Perak (Temerloh, 4.45pm), BJSS Juniors v Sekolah Tunku Abdul Rahman (Ministry of Education Stadium, 4.45pm), Kuala Lumpur Sport School v SM Sains Raja Tun Azlan Shah (KLHA Stadium, 4.45pm), ISMO PHA v Nurinsafi / Penang Hockey (Azlan Shah Stadium, 4.45pm), SMSJ Knight v 1 MAS Melaka (Batu Pahat, 4.45pm), 1 MAS TBSS Tampin v 1 MAS Johor (Seremban II, 4.45pm).
Division 1 League Table:
P W L D F A PTS
UniKL Young Guns 4 4 0 0 10 4 12
SSTMI Thunderbolts 4 3 0 1 15 5 10
MBPJ 3 2 0 1 9 3 7
KLHC 4 1 2 1 5 7 4
BJSS JR 3 1 2 0 3 9 3
Politeknik Malaysia 3 1 2 0 5 11 3
SSP/MSP/Thunderbolt 4 1 3 0 10 9 3
Olak PKT Tigers 4 1 3 0 5 9 3
SSTMI Juniors 4 0 4 0 2 14 0
Monday, February 2, 2015
UniKL Young Guns fire ahead..
LAST seasons MHC-MILO-NSC Junior Hockey League runners-up UniKL Young Guns have had a super start to the season as they sit pretty in Division One without dropping a point after four matches.
The University side has a hundred percent record so far in the league, and with defending champions SSTMI Thunderbolts dropping two points over the weekend, after being held 2-2 by Petaling Jaya City Council, UniKL take a two-point advantage into the weekend.
UniKL coach I.Vickneswaran said: “We lead the pack now, but it is going to be a huge challenge to maintain that spot as other teams seem to have found their touch after a few matches.
“It is a learning process for all of us at UniKL as I only had two weeks to get this team ready and so far they have shown good structure.”
UniKL defeated BJSS Juniors 6-1 on Friday before fighting out for 3-1 win against Politeknik Malaysia on Saturday.
Defending champions SSTMI Thunderbolts will be looking to put aside a rather disappointing weekend as they lost their last season's hundred percent win record to PJCC on Friday before bouncing back to defeat KLHC 3-1 on Saturday.
Coach Wan Roslan Wan Rahman said: “We will have to forget about what has happened, as we look forward to winning our remaining matches. I would like to take nothing away from PJCC as they put up an outstanding performance and pushed us all the way, but we are here to retain out title and we will try our best to turn the tie around in the coming week.”
UniKL will only be up against Olak PKT Tigers this coming week while SSTMI Thunderbolts will play host to BJSS Juniors and Olak PKT Tigers.
The University side has a hundred percent record so far in the league, and with defending champions SSTMI Thunderbolts dropping two points over the weekend, after being held 2-2 by Petaling Jaya City Council, UniKL take a two-point advantage into the weekend.
UniKL coach I.Vickneswaran said: “We lead the pack now, but it is going to be a huge challenge to maintain that spot as other teams seem to have found their touch after a few matches.
“It is a learning process for all of us at UniKL as I only had two weeks to get this team ready and so far they have shown good structure.”
UniKL defeated BJSS Juniors 6-1 on Friday before fighting out for 3-1 win against Politeknik Malaysia on Saturday.
Defending champions SSTMI Thunderbolts will be looking to put aside a rather disappointing weekend as they lost their last season's hundred percent win record to PJCC on Friday before bouncing back to defeat KLHC 3-1 on Saturday.
Coach Wan Roslan Wan Rahman said: “We will have to forget about what has happened, as we look forward to winning our remaining matches. I would like to take nothing away from PJCC as they put up an outstanding performance and pushed us all the way, but we are here to retain out title and we will try our best to turn the tie around in the coming week.”
UniKL will only be up against Olak PKT Tigers this coming week while SSTMI Thunderbolts will play host to BJSS Juniors and Olak PKT Tigers.
Subahan the new MHC president
DATUK Seri Subahan kamal was the sole candidate chosen by 12 states to helm the Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) when nominations closed at noon yesterday.
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