Euro Hockey - Nations Trophy, Wrexham 2009: 08/01/2009

Saturday 8 August 2009

Closing Ceremony

All the teams are following their flags on to the pitch.

They are lining up in the order that they finished the tournament

1 Ireland (Promoted)

2 Russia (Promoted)

3 Wales

4 Czech Republic

5 Scotland

6 Belarus

7 Italy (Relegated)

8 Switzerland (Relegated)

The presentation party consisting of Martin Gotheridge (President, EHF), Anne Ellis (President, Welsh Hockey Union), Councillor Arwell Jones (Mayor of Wrexham), Professor Kate Sullivan (Pro Vice Chancellor, Glyndwr University). Leslie Griffiths (Welsh Assembly Member).

Anne Ellis address the massed crowed. Giving her thanks to all those who have made the tournament very successful.

Announcer announces that the top five nations have qualified for the World Cup Qualifying Rounds.

The following awards are given

Fair Play - Switzerland –presented by Anne Ellis
Player of the tournament – Alexander KOROLEV (Russia) presented by Leslie Griffiths
Goalkeeper of the tournament – Filip NEUSSER (Czech Republic) presented by Anne Ellis
Bronze Medal Team – Wales come up and receive their medals from Guido Braca (TD) and Mike Leatt (CEO WHU)
Silver Medal Team – Russia come up and receive their medals from Anne Ellis (WHU President) and Professor Kate Sullivan (Pro Vice Chancellor, Glwyndwr University)

Gold Medal Team – Ireland come up and receive their medals from Martin Gotheridge (EHF President) and Councillor Arwell Jones (Mayor of Wrexham). Captain comes up to receive the trophy from Martin Gotheridge.

Its over

All thats left now is the presentation ceremony - I will post a blog report as it happens - should be in about 5 minutes.

FT: Ireland 2 v Russia 1

Last minute - Russians are throwing everything at the Irish but to no avail. With seconds left the Irish are in corner. Hit out to Russia - thrown up field - thats it all over the hooter goes - IRELAND win.

65 mins: Ireland 2 v Russia 1

PENALTY CORNER to Russia - will they or wont they? - the wont off the first but have another chance, 2nd PENALTY corner forces save by keeper - but they get a third PENALTY CORNER which is charged down and cleared.

64 mins: Ireland 2 v Russia 1

With both teams down to ten the game has really opened up now with the Russians needing to attack to get the equalising goal.

61 mins: Ireland 2 v Russia 1

YELLOW CARDS - Ireland no 11 - John JERMYN, and Russian no 3 Ilya LARIKOVA

59 mins: Ireland 2 v Russia 1

The interplay between the Irish wide players is paying off they are making massive inroads into the Russian defence.

58 mins: Ireland 2 v Russia 1

Russian attack breaks down and the Irish attack - shot hits the outside of the post and goes out of play.

55 mins: Ireland 2 v Russia 1

GOAL - no 11 John JERMYN -thunderous shot from the top of the D leaves the goalkeeper no chance of saving.

54 mins: Ireland 1 v Russia 1

Irish attack the Russians again - however, it is not running for them today with the forward not able to control it.

50 mins: Ireland 1 v Russia 1

Aerial ball is mis-controlled by the Irish full back which leaves the Russian winger in - Russia win a long corner which the Irish deal with comfortably.

49 mins: Ireland 1 v Russia 1

YELLOW CARD - Russia No 5 - Alexander KOROLEV

46 mins: Ireland 1 v Russia 1

Both teams are battling out for midfield possession.

41 mins: Ireland 1 v Russia 1

Russian attack is well dealt with by the Irish defence, the Irish counter only to be closed down well by the Russians.

38 mins: Ireland 1 v Russia 1

Irish pull ball back to the top of the D and there is a shot on goal on - but he kicks it.

36 mins: Ireland 1 v Russia 1

2nd half starts with the Irish in possession.

HT: Ireland 1 v Russia 1

31 mins: Ireland 1 v Russia 1

Irish loft the ball in from a crossing position which is palmed away. From the resulting play Ireland are awarded a PENALTY CORNER. Can they improve on the last effort - GOAL Irish no John JERMYN - low and hard to the bottom left.

30 mins: Ireland 0 v Russia 1

A misplace pass from the Irish allows the Russians to gain some ground and possession. They run through on goal but collides with the outcoming keeper.

29 mins: Ireland 0 v Russia 1

GREEN CARD - Ireland no 8 Sephen BUTLER

28 mins: Ireland 0 v Russia 1

Ireland seem to be winning the midfield battle and advance far enough to get a PENALTY CORNER. Unfortunately the pressure must be starting to get to them as the push out only travelled about a foot. Russia came in and cleared.

25 mins: Ireland 0 v Russia 1

Its hotting up now - Ireland have another chance but the advancing goalkeeper closing down the Irish attack stops the goal.

22 mins: Ireland 0 v Russia 1

PENALTY CORNER to Ireland - can the pull the goal back - no a mis-control and the edge of the D breaks down the corner attempt. Russia break but Ireland defend well.

19 mins: Ireland 0 v Russia 1

PENALTY CORNER to the Irish, mid air shot saved by the goalkeeper for a long corner.

16 mins: Ireland 0 v Russia 1

The Irish are pinning the Russians back in their own half. Russian attacks are getting rarer as they look to defend their lead.

14 Mins: Ireland 0 v Russia 1

Latest Irish attack is thwarted by the Russian defence.

10 Mins: Ireland 0 v Russia 1

Ireland attack - 3 on 2 - but fail to make efforts pay. The resulting long corner play is dealt with by the Russian goalkeeper.

8 Mins: Ireland 0 v Russia 1

PENALTY CORNER to Ireland as clearance by the Russians hit defenders foot on the way out of the D. Shot is stopped by the foot of the goalkeeper.

6 Mins: Ireland 0 v Russia 1

GOAL - Russia no 30 - Alexandre PLANTONOV, scores from a reverse stick shot from an impossible angle.

2 Mins: Ireland 0 v Russia 0

Game is very open in the starting couple of minutes. Both teams equally matched and are knocking the ball around very nicely.

Game 20: THE FINAL: IRELAND v RUSSIA

Starting Line Ups

Ireland: John JACKSON, Ronan GORMLEY (C), Stephen BUTLER, Joe BREENAN, John JERMYN, Eugene MAGEE, Graham SHAW, Timothy COCKRAM, Alan SOTHERN, Tim LEWIS, David HARTE.

Russia: Evgeny MOKOUSOV, Alexey SERGEEV, Alexander KOROLEV, Alexander ZHIRKOV, Dmitry VOLKOV, Sergey KOSTAREV, Timour NIKOLAEV, Roman ROGOV, Yaroslav LOGINOV, Alexandre PLANTONOV (C), Alexander CHERENKOV

Umpires: Juan Manuel REQUENA & Francesco PARISI

FT: Wales 5 Czech Rep 2

Czechs bounce out of compeition in 4th place - Wales finish in third place.

70+: Wales 5 v Czech Republic 2

PENALTY CORNER to Czech Republic - Hooter has gone Wales have won but still need to defend the corner, all the Czechs are up around the D. Keeper saves.

68 Mins: Wales 5 v Czech Republic 2

PENALTY CORNER - Czech Republic - cleared well by the Welsh Defence, however, another PENALTY CORNER awarded - Welsh clear and counter attack.

65 Mins: Wales 5 v Czech Republic 2

Czechs work the ball out well from a defensive position.

61 Mins: Wales 5 v Czech Republic 2

Game has now really opened up - wales are trying to overcome conceding the goal and have a free hit 5m outside the D. Unfortunately comes to nothing.

59 Mins: Wales 5 v Czech Republic 2

Czech Republic are attacking trying to get a goal back and have earned themselves a PENALTY CORNER - GOAL Czech Republic after a very inventive routine no 10 - Jakub KYNDL puts ball into top corner.

56 Mins: Wales 5 v Czech Republic 1

PENALTY CORNER to Wales - GOAL - no 17 Rick GAY

53 Mins: Wales 4 v Czech Republic 1

PENALTY CORNER - to the Welsh - Wales drive the ball in and are badly axed down - Umpire awards a PENALTY STROKE. GOAL - no 14 - Rhys JOYCE slots it home.

49 Mins: Wales 3 v Czech Republic 1

YELLOW CARD - no 7 - Joe NAUGHALTY, 5 minutes suspension indicated by the umpire

PENALTY CORNER - Czech Republic - hit against Welsh legs - 2nd PENALTY CORNER

47 Mins: Wales 3 v Czech Republic 1

PENALTY CORNER to Wales - can they extend their lead? - GOAL - no 17 Rick GAY.

42 Mins: Wales 2 v Czech Republic 1

Wales keeping possession with their rear guard passing between them - they now push up the field but to no avail.

41 Mins: Wales 2 v Czech Republic 1

Wales free hit just inside the 25 - both attempts to get the ball in the D are blocked and the Czechs come away with a free hit.

40 Mins: Wales 2 v Czech Republic 1

First five minutes of the 2nd half have been relatively even.

36 Mins: Wales 2 v Czech Republic 1

2nd half starts

HT: Wales 2 v Czech Republic 1

A good half leaves it very nicely balanced for the second half.

32 Mins: Wales 2 v Czech Republic 1

GOAL - Czech no 12 David VACEK slots in a goal despite some resolute Welsh defending.

31 Mins: Wales 2 v Czech Republic 0

following a series of axe men challenges Welsh no 17 - Rick GAY receives a GREEN CARD.

30 Mins: Wales 2 v Czech Republic 0

Czechs Republic pressure the Welsh defence but it holds out. A quick free hit is punished as it is taken too close the the D.

26 Mins: Wales 2 v Czech Republic 0

For the first time in the game the intensity has dropped as the Czechs try and play the ball out from the back - Wales regain possession and counter attack.

23 Mins: Wales 2 v Czech Republic 0

GREEN CARD - no 14 Rhys JONES

22 Mins: Wales 2 v Czech Republic 0

A second GOAL for Wales - very similar to the last one ball drilled in and a touch in the D by Welsh 20 deflected it into the goal.

19 Mins: Wales 1 v Czech Republic 0

Wales seem to have had the majority of the chances - A ball hit in from the left is touched into the goal by Welsh no 12 Lewis PROSSER - GOAL!!!!!

16 Mins: Wales 0 v Czech Republic 0

Reverse stick shot by the Welsh takes out cameraman standing in video tower behind goal.

12 Mins: Wales 0 v Czech Republic 0

So far the game is very open game so far with both sides attacking. A bad stick challenge on the top of the D gives Wales a PENALTY CORNER - shot is deflected wide for a long corner.

9 Mins: Wales 0 v Czech Republic 0

Wales break into the D and the shot goes into the goal - however, umpire has already blown whistle for a stick tackle against Wales.

6 Mins: Wales 0 v Czech Republic

a mazy run by Nick REES through the Czech defence leads to a long corner - unfortunately possession given away cheaply.

4 Mins: Wales 0 v Czech Republic

A good Welsh attack down the right hand side results in the ball going out for a long corner.

2 Mins: Wales 0 v Czech Republic

Despite Wales taking the push back they are soon under pressure from the Czech attack.

0 Mins: Wales 0 v Czech Republic

Teams have lined up for the anthems - shaken hands - GAME ON

Game 19: 3/4th Place Playoff - Wales v Czech Republic

Starting Line-ups

Wales: George HARRIS, Peter Swainson, Chris BOWEN, Joe NAUGHALTY, Andy CORNICK, Lewis PROSSER, Rhys JOYCE, Rick GAY, Nick REES, James HUGHES, Rufus McNAUGHT-BARRINGTON.

Czech Republic: Tomas HANUS, Marek TRAVNIK, Pavel BARTA, Tomas PROCHAZKA, Stephan BERNATEK, Ondrej VUDMASKA, Ladislav CECH, Jakub KYNDL, Daniel PITERAK, David VACEK, MArtin LEHOVEC, Ondrej TUREK.

Umpires: Thomas LINGG & Konstantin BARAVINSKI

FT: Belarus 1 v Scotland 2

67 mins: Belarus 1 v Scotland 2

Belarus attacks are getting few and far between as Scotland pile on the pressure.

63 mins: Belarus 1 v Scotland 2

Scottish attack the Belarus defence quite regularly.

59 mins: Belarus 1 v Scotland 2

The game has got a bit bitty - with tackles flying in all over the place. YELLOW CARD - no 11 Belarus - Ivan KISIALEVICH

55 mins: Belarus 1 v Scotland 2

Scottish attack is smothered by the Belarus goalkeeper.

53 mins: Belarus 1 v Scotland 2

A Belarus attack is through on goal, however, a good recovery tackle by the Scots clears the ball.

50 mins: Belarus 1 v Scotland 2

Belarus have weathered the counter attack by the Scottish

47 mins: Belarus 1 v Scotland 2

GOAL - for Belarus, some poor Scottish defending let the Belarus no 9 - Vitali ZYSCHYK in for the goal.

45 mins: Belarus 0 v Scotland 2

PENALTY CORNER for Scotland - strike hits the post and rebounds safely for the Belarus team.

39 mins: Belarus 0 v Scotland 2

PENALTY CORNER to Scotland first shot blocked illegally so second PENALTY CORNER awarded.

GREEN CARD no 13 Scotland - Kenneth BAIN - for protesting

36 Mins: Belarus 0 v Scotland 2

2nd Half underway - Scotland got the ball

HT: Belarus 0 v Scotland 2

30 Mins: Belarus 0 v Scotland 2

After some nice build up play down the right hand side of the pitch Scotland are awarded a PENALTY CORNER - no 11 steps up for the strike but it hits a Belarus foot for a second PENALTY CORNER. First shot by no 11 is cleared off the line but the rebound falls back to him and he rifles it in. GOAL - no 11 Mark Ralph.

26 Mins: Belarus 0 v Scotland 1

GOAL - Scotland, no 15 Iain SCHOLEFIELD, diving in on the back post to deflect the ball over the goal line.

26 Mins: Belarus 0 v Scotland 0

GREEN CARD - Belarus no Ivan ILYUSCHYTS for a stick tackle

23 Mins: Belarus 0 v Scotland 0

Scotland are on the attack again but zip a ball harmlessly across the D.

19 Mins: Belarus 0 v Scotland 0

PENALTY CORNER to Belarus - pushed wide of the far post.

18 Mins: Belarus 0 v Scotland 0

Another Scotland attack lacks punch as it is dealt with by the Belarus defence.

15 Mins: Belarus 0 v Scotland 0

PENALTY CORNER to Belarus - can they sneak a lead - no they cant - shot deflected wide of the near post. Scotland counter attack.

11 Mins: Belarus 0 v Scotland 0

Scotland attack again - but find their efforts dealt with by the Belarus defence.

10 Mins: Belarus 0 v Scotland 0

Belarus attack - but Scotland clean up and counter, some very cool defending from the Belarus sweeper clears the ball.

7 Mins: Belarus 0 v Scotland 0

Belarus have had some attacks but with very little effect. Scotland still look the most likey to score when they drive forward.

3 Mins: Belarus 0 v Scotland 0

Scotland are attacking the Belarus defence making some probing 3D passes. The Belarus team are finding it difficult to get out of their half.

1 Mins: Belarus 0 v Scotland 0

PENALTY CORNER to Scotland - can they grab an early lead. Scottish no 11 flings the ball wide of the post.

0 Mins: Belarus 0 v Scotland 0

Teams have lined up - Scotland push back - GAME ON.

Game 18: BELARUS v SCOTLAND

Starting line-ups

Belarus: Aliaksander RADZIVINOVICH, Yauhan CHERAPANAU, Ihar LITOUCHANKA, Tsimyr TSIMASHKOY, Ihar ZYSHCHYK, Ivan ILYUSCHYTS, Vitali ZYSHCHYK, Ivan KISIALEVICH (C), Pavel HABRYNEUSKI, Andrei LAZARENKA, Siarhei LIHOR.

Scotland: Stephen DICK, Graham MOODIE (C), Mark RALPH, Kenneth BAIN, Willie MARSHALL, Iain SCHOLEFIELD, Niall STOTT, Graham DUNLOP, Ali MCGREGOR, Chris GRASSICK, Vishal MARWAHA.

Umpires: Andrey ISAEV & Jamie HINDLE

This game will see Vishal MARWAHA gain his 150th cap.

FT: Italy 2 v Switzerland 1

GOAL - the Swiss get a consolation goal with the last action of the game - no 9 Federico ARDITO.

69 Mins: Italy 2 v Switzerland 0

Into the last minute and, fair play to the Swiss they are still trying for a goal.

67 Mins: Italy 2 v Switzerland 0

A hit outside the D for the Italians is upgraded to a PENALTY CORNER for some Swiss dissent. The shot is put wide of the far post.

65 Mins: Italy 2 v Switzerland 0

The Swiss are lazy playing the ball about the back and pay the price as the Italians intercept and bear down on the goal - the shot goes zipping wide of the far post.

62 Mins: Italy 2 v Switzerland 0

GOAL: Finally after all their attacks the Italian Striker no 11 Massimo LANZANO slots the ball past the substitute goalkeeper.

61 Mins: Italy 1 v Switzerland 0

Another Italian attack is stopped by a strong tackle by the Swiss defence.

55 Mins: Italy 1 v Switzerland 0

Swiss substitute goalkeeper.

53 Mins: Italy 1 v Switzerland 0

Italy win a long corner which they dribble into the buts gets tackled.

GREEN CARD for Italian no 11 - Massimo LANZANO - for verbals.

50 Mins: Italy 1 v Switzerland 0

The game has calmed down a bit with both midfield's struggling to get a grip.

45 Mins: Italy 1 v Switzerland 0

PENALTY CORNER to the Italians - a nice routine at the top of the D results in a good save by the Swiss keeper.

44 Mins: Italy 1 v Switzerland 0

Both teams are attacking - it really is end to end - however, the quality in the final third for both teams is lacking.

41 Mins: Italy 1 v Switzerland 0

Two Italian attacks are stopped by two saves by the keeper.

39 Mins: Italy 1 v Switzerland 0

Italians run down the right win only to be thwarted by a great Swiss tackle.

38 Mins: Italy 1 v Switzerland 0

The Swiss attack is broken down by for once a resilient Italian defence. But they keep going and get a long corner.

36 Mins: Italy 1 v Switzerland 0

2nd half starts -

HT: Italy 1 v Switzerland 0

32 Mins: Italy 1 v Switzerland 0

Swiss are attacking like clockwork - however, they are not getting that final killer ball in - many balls are zipping across the D but no one is getting on the end.

29 Mins: Italy 1 v Switzerland 0

The Swiss are now attacking and are rewarded with a PENALTY CORNER. Can they grab the equaliser - no they can not.

27 Mins: Italy 1 v Switzerland 0

PENALTY CORNER to Italy - GOAL - a great save from the Swiss goalkeeper, however, the ball rebounds straight to no 2 who bats it into the goal - Jacopo LUNETTA.

22 Mins: Italy 0 v Switzerland 0

The Swiss are coming more and more into the game - however, an Italian break sees them awarded a PENALTY CORNER. Which comes to nothing due to a good block by the defender and goalkeeper.

18 Mins: Italy 0 v Switzerland 0

PENALTY CORNER to Italy - Reverse stick shot deflected over by the goalkeeper for a long corner.

16 Mins: Italy 0 v Switzerland 0

An Italian attack is turned over and Swiss attack - they are awarded a free hit 5m outside the D - they move it 5 yards and then drill it into the D but it goes out harmlessly.

11 Mins: Italy 0 v Switzerland 0

A Swiss attack is turned over and the Italians attack - They win a PENALTY CORNER for a stick tackle - nothing come from it. Swiss attack and force a save from the Italian keeper.

7 Mins: Italy 0 v Switzerland 0

Its taken the Swiss 7 minutes but they have finally got into the Italian half - but not for long.

4 Mins: Italy 0 v Switzerland 0

Italians are making all the moves to score the first goal - playing most of the game so far in the Swiss half - the couple of shots they have manufactured have been on the reverse and have gone high or wide.

2 Mins: Italy 0 v Switzerland 0

Italian PENALTY CORNER as the ball hits a Swiss foot. Can they take an early lead: No but the ball hits another Swiss foot for a SECOND PENALTY CORNER. Keeper charges ball down for a long corner.

0 Mins: Italy 0 v Switzerland 0

Anthems have been sung, hands have been shaken - the teams have lined up - GAME ON!!

GAME 17: Italy v Switzerland

Starting line-ups

Italy: Alberto MARCHI, Jacopo LUNETTA (C), Andrea VARGIU, Agustin NUNEZ, Alessandro NANNI, Federico ARDITO, Loris PERELLI, Massimo LANZO, Patricio Demien, William COTTAM, Michele CIRINA

Switzerland: Partick EGLOFF, Andrea BENZ, Maurice COTTIER (C), Phillipe BERNHARD, Thomas GAHWILER, Pascal ZIMMERMANN, Oliver NYIKOS, Fabian WULLSCHLEGER, Uli BERGMANN, MAnuel KELLER, Andrin RICKLI,

Umpires: David STEWARD & Thomas DUMON.

Thursday 6 August 2009

FT: Russia 4 v Czech Republic 1

Rest day tomorrow - back on Saturday for the final days worth of games.

68 mins: Russia 4 v Czech Republic 1

The game now looks over with time ebbing away - YELLOW CARD to Czech no 13 - Martin LEHOVEC.

65 mins: Russia 4 v Czech Republic 1

PENALTY CORNER to Russia - come to nothing but they are awarded a second PENALTY CORNER after their attacker was hacked down just outside the D

YELLOW CARD - Russian no 8 - Ondrej VUDMASKA.

The resulting corner comes to nothing.

62 mins: Russia 4 v Czech Republic 1

The Russians are still attacking but the Czechs are still quick on the break - even though they are a man short.

58 mins: Russia 4 v Czech Republic 1

PENALTY FLICK to Russia following a shove in the back by Czech no 5 - Tomas PROCHAZKA who receives a YELLOW CARD. No 4 Alexey SERGEEV steps up and Cooley converts the flick.

55 mins: Russia 3 v Czech Republic 1

The Czechs are making every effort to pin the Russians back in their own half.

49 mins: Russia 3 v Czech Republic 1

The Czechs are really taking the game to the Russians - the next goal could be vital.

46 mins: Russia 3 v Czech Republic 1

PENALTY CORNER - Czech Republic - a goal here would really put them back in contention but the shot was charged down and then there was a foul on the goalkeeper.

42 mins: Russia 3 v Czech Republic 1

PENALTY CORNER for the Czech Republic - can they pull a goal back? ... no they cant. But they get another go as the umpire awards a second short corner. No 5 - Tomas PROCHAZKA fires drag flick into top right hand corner of the goal.

39 mins: Russia 3 v Czech Republic 0

Czech have put the Russians udner some sustained pressure and have come away with a PENALTY CORNER which is well saved by the keeper.

36 mins: Russia 3 v Czech Republic 0

2nd half underway with the Czechs attacking but not for long the Russians soon get the ball back and counter attack.

HT: Russia 3 v Czech Republic 0

A very open half has seen both teams trying to attack the opposition, however, the Czechs have had very little success.

32 mins: Russia 3 v Czech Republic 0

Despite the score line the Czechs are still trying to attack, however, they are getting cut out each time by a very resolute Russian defence.

30 mins: Russia 3 v Czech Republic 0

GOAL: Some excellent build up by Russia results in no 5 scoring with a great shot into the goal. Alexander KOROLEV.

25 mins: Russia 2 v Czech Republic 0

PENALTY CORNER to the Russians - shot is block and the umpire awards a second PENALTY CORNER - excellent drag flick by no 4 - Alexey SERGEEV creeps just inside the upright giving the goalkeeper no chance.

23 mins: Russia 1 v Czech Republic 0

The Czechs are slowly coming back into the game putting the Russian defence under a fair amount of pressure - Russian attacker drives in from the left hand side and zips a reverse stick shot at the goal but in goes wide.

22 mins: Russia 1 v Czech Republic 0

Good advantage by the umpire lets the Czech Republic zip a cross past the goal which the keeper clears.

21 mins: Russia 1 v Czech Republic 0

GREEN CARD - Russia no 15 - Sergey KOSTAREV

20 mins: Russia 1 v Czech Republic 0

A Russian slip at the back gave the Czech republic an easy shot at goal, however, it was mis-hit and travelled so slowly to the keepers pads he had time to clear it.

16 mins: Russia 1 v Czech Republic 0

Russians are on the attack again - but to no avail.

13 mins: Russia 1 v Czech Republic 0

PENALTY CORNER - Czech Republic - however, despite a bit of a complicated routine the Russians defend well.

12 mins: Russia 1 v Czech Republic 0

PENALTY CORNER for Russia - after the attacker gained several fouls against him on the way towards the goal. Russia no 7 Alexander ZHIRKOV on the rebound from the goalkeepers pads after his first shot was blocked.

10 mins: Russia 0 v Czech Republic 0

GREEN CARD - Russia no 19, Yaroslav LOGINOV for deliberate feet.

7 mins: Russia 0 v Czech Republic 0

PENALTY CORNER to Russia - following deliberate foul inside the 25. No 5 shoots but forces the keeper into a diving save.

4 mins: Russia 0 v Czech Republic 0

Russia are still putting the pressure on the Czech defence - but the Czech Republic are defending admirably - how long can they hold out for.

2 mins: Russia 0 v Czech Republic 0

Russia have certainly started the better team - the Czechs may struggle to contain them if they continue playing like this.

0 mins: Russia 0 v Czech Republic 0

Anthems sung - teams are starting to line up ready for the start. Russia to start.

Game 16: Semi Final 2: Russia v Czech Republic

Starting Line-ups

Russia: Llya LARIKOVA, Alexy SERGEEV, Alexander CHERENKOV, Alexander KOROLEV, Alexander ZHIRKOV, Dmirty VOLKOV, Sergey KOSTAREV, Timour NIKOLAEV, Roman ROGOV, Yaroslav LOGINOV, Alexandre PLANTONOV (C)

Czech Republic: Filip NEUSSER (C), Pavel BARTA, Tomas PROCHAZKA, Stepan BERNATEK, Ondrej VUDMASKA, Jakub KYNDL, Daniel PITERAK, David VACEK, Martin HANUS, Martini BABICKY, Ondrej TUREK.

Umpires: Thomas DUMON & Jamie HINDLE

FT: Ireland 1 v Wales 0

69 Mins: Ireland 1 v Wales 0

Can Wales make the most of this - possibly thier last chance but put the ball over the cross bar.

68 Mins: Ireland 1 v Wales 0

Wales still pressure but far too often run out of ideas when they get into the final third of the pitch. Ireland counter but Wales deal with it and push down the pitch. PENALTY CORNER to Wales.

65 Mins: Ireland 1 v Wales 0

Wales attack but with Ireland hold strong at the back - Wales have wasted too many passes in good positions.

62 Mins: Ireland 1 v Wales 0

YELLOW CARD - Ireland no 6 - Ronan GORMLEY

60 Mins: Ireland 1 v Wales 0

We are into the last ten minutes - Wales really need to make something happen now, an equaliser could put the game into golden goal extra time and possibly penalties. But Ireland are defending really well and getting to Wales on the break.

58 Mins: Ireland 1 v Wales 0

Wales launch another attack and a great ball into the D is deflected goal wards but some excellent positioning play by the Irish goalkeeper means he just stands still and watch it deflect off his pads.

54 Mins: Ireland 1 v Wales 0

Welsh are not penetrating the Irish defence enough if they want the equaliser - the Irish are doing a very good job of keeping them out of the 25.

52 Mins: Ireland 1 v Wales 0

Irish attack through the centre of the D - however, shot goes sailing over the bar.

49 Mins: Ireland 1 v Wales 0

A Welsh based attack down the right fizzles out as the resulting cross zips across the goal mouth.

45 Mins: Ireland 1 v Wales 0

Welsh are really pressing the Irish defence working some good passing movements down the pitch, however, too many passes are going wide of the mark to make the moves dangerous.

40 Mins: Ireland 1 v Wales 0

Welsh attack is cut out by the Irish, but the Welsh regroup and attack again. But a loose pass spoils everything.

38 Mins: Ireland 1 v Wales 0

Irish attack down the left hand side of the pitch showing of some of their stick skills and earn a long corner. Welsh close this down well and force the Irish to switch the point of attack to the right. The attack then dies.

36 Mins: Ireland 1 v Wales 0

2nd Half underway - Welsh immediately under pressure from the Irish.

HT: Ireland 1 v Wales 0

After a very exciting 1st half the crowd are left entertained.

34 Mins: Ireland 1 v Wales 0

GREEN CARD - Irish no 12 Eugene MAGEE - not retreating five on a free hit.

33 Mins: Ireland 1 v Wales 0

Both sides are intent on attcking and it is makin it a really excellent opening game which is travelling from end to end.

30 Mins: Ireland 1 v Wales 0

The Irish are still dangerous on the counter attack and are proving themselves more than a handful when the get into the last third of the pitch.

28 Mins: Ireland 1 v Wales 0

Wales are still taking the game to the Irish and have had three or four good attacks into the circle, however, they are finding it difficult to find the goal with the shot just creeping wide of either post.

24 Mins: Ireland 1 v Wales 0

Great ball into the D by Wales but the attacker fails to control it and it goes behind.

20 Mins: Ireland 1 v Wales 0

PENALTY CORENER to Ireland following a poor tackle in the D by the Welsh. GOAL - Drag flick into corner by no 8 Sephen BUTLER.

17 Mins: Ireland 0 v Wales 0

YELLOW CARD - Welsh no 13 - Huw JONES for a hefty challenge with his body.

15 Mins: Ireland 0 v Wales 0

PENALTY CORNER to Wales as Welsh attacker goes between two defenders and is blocked off. Can they take advantage - no, they slip the ball right but shot is deflected and hits a Welsh player.

12 Mins: Ireland 0 v Wales 0

First real attack for the Irish that gets them in the Welsh D. Keeper comes out and is stranded by Irish attack drags ball wide of the far post.

GREEN CARD - Irish no 11 - John JERMYN, Welsh no 13 Huw JONES - for not verbals.

10 Mins: Ireland 0 v Wales 0

PENALTY CORNER for Wales after ball comes off Irish foot inside D. Can they take an early lead? ... No, but they force a good save from the Irish keeper and earn another PENALTY CORNER. This one is again saved and cleared.

7 Mins: Ireland 0 v Wales 0

Welsh captain drives the ball around the back forcing the Irish keeper to come off his line and make a block.

6 Mins: Ireland 0 v Wales 0

After the early Welsh pressure, it is now Irelands turn to ask the questions of the Welsh defence. All of the Welsh players are now behind the ball in the last third of the pitch.

4 Mins: Ireland 0 v Wales 0

Still no goals however, it is end to end stuff with Ireland making good use of the arial balls down the flanks of the pitch.

2 Mins: Ireland 0 v Wales 0

A frantic start to the game from both teams, the Welsh are letting the Irish play in their own half and are getting everyone behind the ball when they are defending.

0 Mins: Ireland 0 v Wales 0

Teams are out and with the Anthems over the game is about to start

Game 15: Semi Final 1: Ireland v Wales

Starting line ups

Ireland: David HARTE, John JACKSON, Ronam GORMLEY (C), Stephen BUTLER, Joe BRENNAN, John JERMYN, Eugene MAGEE, Graham SHAW, Tim COCKRAM, Alan SOTHERERN, Tim LEWIS

Wales: George HARRIS, Peter SWAINSON, Chris BOWEN, Joe NAUGHALTY, Andy CORNICK, Matt RUXTON (C), Lewis PROSSER, Huw JONES, Rick GAY, Nick REES, James HUGHES

Umpires: Juan Manuel REQUENA & Francesco PARISI.

FT: Belarus 1 v Switzerland 0

Its over

67 Mins: Belarus 1 v Switzerland 0

The Swiss are on a roll - their third attack in quick succession brings a good save from the Belarus goalkeeper - can they get the equaliser in the next three minutes.

64 Mins: Belarus 1 v Switzerland 0

Swiss play a good ball into the D but the defender on the back post tries a sweep shot into the goal - but misses the ball.

61 Mins: Belarus 1 v Switzerland 0

The Swiss finally get in the Belarus D only to have their shot saved by the advancing Swiss goalkeeper.

60 Mins: Belarus 1 v Switzerland 0

The Swiss are being very patient in the build up but are finding it very hard to break into the Belarus D.

53: Belarus 1 v Switzerland 0

YELLOW CARD - Belarus no 11 - Ivan KISIALEVICH for not retreating 5 on a free hit.

50 Mins: Belarus 1 v Switzerland 0

The Swiss have had several attacks on the Belarus goal in an attempt to get an equaliser but all have been broken down before they can get close to the D.

45 Mins: Belarus 1 v Switzerland 0

GREEN CARD - Belarus no 8 - Ivan ILYUSCHYTS for a bad tackle.

39 Mins: Belarus 1 v Switzerland 0

PENALTY CORNER to the Swiss - can they grab an equaliser - Swiss strike the ball and beat the goalkeeper and all the defenders - however, hits the foot of Swiss attacker on the line who stops the goal.

38 Mins: Belarus1 v Switzerland 0

GGGGGGGGGGOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLLLLL

Belarus from the 1st PENALTY CORNER of the game slots the ball under the goalkeeper - scored by no 11 Ivan KISIALEVICH.

37 Mins: Belarus 0 v Switzerland 0

We have had a change of umpire - Jamie HINDLE has taken over from Stephan PODMOLD

37 Mins: Belarus 0 v Switzerland 0

1st PENALTY CORNER to Belarus - but the umpire changes his mind and has given a bully at the top of the D.

36 Min: Belarus 0 v Switzerland 0

Second half - starts with the Belarus team attacking and causing to make the Swiss goalkeeper to make a save.

HT: Belarus 0 v Switzerland 0

31 Mins: Belarus 0 v Switzerland 0

GREEN CARD - Swiss no 3 - Maurice COTTIER

24 Mins: Belarus 0 v Switzerland 0

A rare Swiss attack in what can only be described as a very unexciting game.

18 Mins: Belarus 0 v Switzerland 0

The Belarus midfield run at the Swiss defence and gains about 40 yards however, he is tackled of the top of the D before he can get the shot it.

12 Mins: Belarus 0 v Switzerland 0

The midfield area of the pitch is very crowded as both teams look to try and keep possession.

8 Mins: Belarus 0 v Switzerland 0

The game is still very close - both teams are attempting to attack but are often failing to find the killer ball through the others defence.

2 Mins: Belarus 0 v Switzerland 0

Belarus attack - comes to nothing, both teams are struggling to get into their rhythm in the opening part of the game.

0 Mins: Belarus 0 v Switzerland 0

Both teams have lined up and the Anthems have been sung. GAME ON.

Game 14: BELARUS v SWITZERLAND

Starting Line-ups

Belarus: Siarhei LIHOR, Alisksandr RADZIVINOVICH, Yauhen CHERAPANAU, Ihar, LITOUCHENKA, Tsimyr TSIMASHKOY, Alisaksandr HANCHAROU, Ican ILYSCHYTS, Vitali ZYSCHYK, Ivan KISIALVICH(C), Pavel HABRYNEUSKU, Andrei LAZARENKA

Switzerland: Patrick EGLOFF, Andreas BENZ, Maurice COTTIER, Phillippe BERNHARD, Thomas GAHWILER, Pascal ZIMMERMAN, Oliver NYIKOS, Fabian WWULLSCHLEGER, Uli BERGANN, Andrin RICKLI, Jura RICKLI.

Umpires: Neil MCALPINE, Stepan PODMOL.

FT: Italy 3 v Scotland 5

Next up: Belarus v Switzerland @ 12:30

68 Mins: Italy 3 v Scotland 5

Scotland go straight down the other end and score with no Kenneth BAIN slotting home. GOAL. That should surely seal the win and kill any possible Italian comeback.

67 Mins: Italy 3 v Scotland 4

PENALTY CORNER to Italy - no 11 shoots but it is cleared off the line by a combination of the goalkeeper and defender. From the following play Italy cross the ball and no 11 - Massimo LANZAN slots home the ball. GOAL!!

64 Mins: Italy 2 v Scotland 4

Following an earlier injury - the latest Italian fashion accessory is used!

60 Mins: Italy 2 v Scotland 3

PENALTY CORNER - Scotland - come to nothing except a free hit wide right to the Scottish which is defended well.

56 Mins: Italy 2 v Scotland 3

YELLOW CARD - Italian no 18 - Lorenzo DUSSI.

58 Mins: Italy 2 v Scotland 4

PENALTY CORNER to Scotland - can they extend their lead - GOAL - yes they can no 3 Stephen DICK converts after a well worked move at the top of the D.

57 Mins: Italy 2 v Scotland 3

Scottish attack the Italians with increasing frequency, however, they are somewhat outsized.

50 Mins: Italy 2 v Scotland 3

The Italians have had two or three attacks over the last couple of minutes and have now been awarded a PENALTY CORNER - can they equalise. No the shot is charged down.

46 Mins: Italy 2 v Scotland 3

Shot from the top of the D is well blocked by the Italian keeper - next attack but the Scottish hits a Scottish foot infront of an open goal.

45 Mins: Italy 2 v Scotland 3

Scottish attack is thwarted by the goalkeeper.

44 Mins: Italy 2 v Scotland 3

GOAL - to Italy, a reverse shot from Italian number 15 William COTTAM. Is it going to be an Italian comeback?

41 Mins: Italy 1 v Scotland 3

Midfield area of the pitch is very congested at the start of the first half

37 Mins: Italy 1 v Scotland 3

YELLOW CARD - Scotland no 25 - Christopher GRASSICK for deliberately kicking the ball.

36 Mins: Italy 1 v Scotland 3

Second half about to start - Welsh weather doing it again - suns out, temperatures increasing. Scotland look as if they are going to play this half the same as the first half by piling on the pressure. Scottish attack just miss a reasonably open goal.

HT: Italy 1 v Scotland 3

32 Mins: Italy 1 v Scotland 3

As the half comes to an end the Scottish attack - no 13 turns the defender and rifles ball just wide of far post.

30 Mins: Italy 1 v Scotland 3

PENALTY CORNER to Scotland - can they extend thier lead - yes they can GOAL - no 11 with a carbon copy of the first goal.

25 Mins: Italy 1 v Scotland 2

The Scottish are knocking the ball around showing off some nice skills and frustrating the Italians. Some great skills by the Scottish no 13 gets a shot at goal which is well saved by the goalkeeper.

21 Mins: Italy 1 v Scotland 2

Its all getting a bit heated in the centre of the park - the Italians are putting some crunching tackles in on the Scotts.

18 Mins: Italy 1 v Scotland 2

GOAL - thanks to a defensive mistake by the Scottish the Italians grab a goal through no 13 - Daniele MALTA.

14 Mins: Italy 0 v Scotland 2

Scottish are still attacking the Italian defence every chance they get. Italians are breaking infrequently but are not looking dangerous.

12 Mins: Italy 0 v Scotland 2

GOAL: Scottish attack down the centre of the pitch no 16 drives in and shoots from the top of the D. Ball goes in the net via a deflection from the keepers pads.

11 Mins: Italy 0 v Scotland 1

GREEN CARD - Italian no 16 - Michele CIRINA, for an earlier foul.

9 Mins: Italy 0 v Scotland 1

There is a rare Italian attach which is broken down well by the Scotts Defence.

7 Mins: Italy 0 v Scotland 1

PENALTY CORNER - for the Scottish - No 11, Mark RALPH Scores with a low shot to the corner of the goal beating the outstretched goalkeeper.

4 Mins: Italy 0 v Scotland 0

Scotland are still battering the Italian Defence - GREEN CARD Italian no 10 - Loris PERELLI, Italy happy to play with 11 men behind the ball and hit long balls.

2 Mins: Italy 0 v Scotland 0

Early Scottish pressure is easily dealt with by the Italian defence.

0 Mins: Italy 0 v Scotland 0

GAME ON - Italy push back

Game:13: Italy v Scotland

**NOTICE - THIS GAME WILL START AT 10:10 **

Starting line-ups

Italy: Francesco MITROTTA, Jacopo LUNETTA (C), Andrea VARGIU, Agustin NUNEZ, Alessandro NANNI, Federico ARDITO, Loris PERELLI, Massimo LANZANO, Patrico Demien MONGIANO, William COTTAM, Michele CIRINA

Scotland: Allan DICK (GK), Stephen DICK, Graham MOODIE (C), MArk RALPH, Christopher NELSON, Iain SCHOLEFIELD, Graham DUNLOP, Christopher GRASSICK, Gavin BYERS, Craig HARPER, Vishal MARWAHA.

Umpires: Andrey ISAEV & David STEWARD

All the photos from this game and all other games from the tournament can be found on www.fidopics.co.uk

Todays Games

Todays games are as follows

10:00 Italy v Scotland
12:30 Belarus v Switzerland
15:00 Ireland v Wales
17:30 Russia v Czech Republic

Wednesday 5 August 2009

Penalty Shootout - BONUS FEATURE

With both Wales and the Czech Republic both equal on points, goal difference, goals scored etc a Penalty stroke competition is required to decide who finishes top of the group

First Stroke
Wales - Score Czech Rep - Miss 1 - 0
Wales - Score Czech Rep - Miss 2 - 0
Wales - Score Czech Rep - Score 3 - 1
Wales - Score 4 - 1

All over Wales top the group.

Next fixtures Wales v Ireland and Russia v Czech Rep

Tuesday 4 August 2009

FT: Scotland 2 v Czech Republic 2

Thats it - all over.

Its a rest day tomorrow so no Hockey . We are back on Thursday for the Semi Finals and relegation pool game. There is a schedule on the WHU website and I will post one on here tomorrow.

68 Mins: Scotland 2 v Czech Republic 2

Scotts are still pushing for a winning goal but are playing it close to the wind at the back.

65 Mins: Scotland 2 v Czech Republic 2

Last five minutes - can anyone grad a winner. Both sides are attacking to the end. Here come the Scotts and as they drive into the D they are awarded a PENALTY CORNER which the Czechs clear.

63 Mins: Scotland 2 v Czech Republic 2

Scotts are attacking again, but the Czechs have won the ball and are now countering - however, it comes to nothing. Here come the Scotts again with a free hit down by the touch line. It all comes to nothing.

61 Mins: Scotland 2 v Czech Republic 2

Its been a great comeback by the Czechs can either side go on to get the winner in the next nine minutes - Scotts are currently attacking but the Czechs are defending resolutely.

59 Mins: Scotland 2 v Czech Republic 2

PENALTY CORNER to Scotland - angle of shot switched by the Scottish but it is defended well by the Czechs

56 Mins: Scotland 2 v Czech Republic 2

PENALTY CORNER - Scotland shot deflects wide for a long corner.

52 Mins: Scotland 2 v Czech Republic 2

The Czechs strike back - no 10 - Jakub Kindal strike comes of the goalkeeper. This coming after some controversy as Scotland claim the ball went in the Czech net only to be over ruled.

50 Mins: Scotland 2 v Czech Republic 1

PENALTY CORNER to Czech Republic after stick tackle outside D stopped the winger driving the ball in. No 5 forces save out of keeper and rebound is put wide. Scottish break down the pitch but on one can get on the end of the cross. Czechs then break and narrowly miss the far post.

47 Mins: Scotland 2 v Czech Republic 1

Goal for Czech Republic no 10 Jakub KYNDAL, slots the ball home from close range following some good wing play.

45 Mins: Scotland 2 v Czech Republic 0

Shot by Scotland no 12 goes wide of far post.

38 Mins: Scotland 2 v Czech Republic 0

PENALTY CORNER to Scotland - can they stretch their lead early in the second half. Good height shot into the goal mouth cleared off the line.

36 Mins: Scotland 2 v Czech Republic 0

Here we are back for the 2nd half

HT: Scotland 2 v Czech Republic 0

Join us after the break to see if the Czechs can bounce back!

32 Mins: Scotland 2 v Czech Republic 0

PENALTY CORNER to Scotland - GOAL: no 11 Mark RALPH

In the following play no 20 - Ondrej TUREK

28 Mins: Scotland 1 v Czech Republic 0

PENALTY CORNER to Scotland keeper saves the ball pushing it onto the attackers feet in the process.

From the counter attack - GREEN CARD to Scotish no 30 Vishal MARWAHA.

25 Mins: Scotland 1 v Czech Republic 0

Since the goal the Czechs have threatened the Scottish half but not the Scottish goal. The Scotts are defending well.

20 Mins: Scotland 1 v Czech Republic 0

GOAL: With the defence deciding to Czech out the Scottish no 13 - Bain KENNETH, left the goalkeeper with no chance rifling the ball into the top corner of the goal.

14 Mins: Scotland 0 v Czech Republic 0

Despite an open ended game - neither team have really tested the goalkeepers with much of the play been in the midfield

10 Mins: Scotland 0 v Czech Republic 0

The Czechs attack but Scotland counter getting a free hit 5m outside the D

9 Mins: Scotland 0 v Czech Republic 0

A Czech attack fizzles out as the Scottish defence sweep up and initiate a counter attack.

4 Mins: Scotland 0 v Czech Republic 0

Good save by the Czech goalkeeper after a good Scottish attach

GREEN CARD - no 8 - Ondrej VUDMASKA - Czech Republic

2 Mins: Scotland 0 v Czech Republic 0

A very open start to the game with both sides attacking - Scotland no 11 Mark RAPLH has been given a GREEN CARD for a deliberate foot.

0 Mins: Scotland 0 v Czech Republic 0

Teams are out and the anthems have been played. GAME ON!!

Match 12: Scotland v Czech Republic

Starting line up

Scotland: Stephen DICK, Fergus DUNN, Graham MOODIE (C), Mark RALPH, Christopher NELSON, Willie MARSHALL, Iain SCHOLEFIELD, Graham DUNLOP, Ali MCGREGOR, Christopher GRASSICK, Vishal MARWAHA.

Czech Republic: Filip NEUSSER (C), Marek TRAVNIK, Pavel BARTA, Tomas PROCHAZKA, Stephan BERNATEK, Ondrej, VUDMASKA, Jakub KYNDL, Daniel PITERAK, David VACEK, Martin HANUS, Ondrej TUREK.

Umpires: Jaun Manuel REQUENA & David STEWARD

Game will start in approximately 10 minutes