With the indoor season more than underway, international friendlies are also on the go. Scottish international and Holcombe star Allan Dick has been playing for his country in indoor competition alongside fellow National League East Conference compatriot (and opponent!) David Forrester. Both have been partaking in the English indoor season so far with Allan playing for his Kent side club and David playing for Essex side Old Loughtonians. Or at least David will be, when his fixtures start at the weekend!! Holcombe have been doing pretty well so far, and having helped them gain promotion to the Premier division last seaso, I'm sure Allan will being doing all he can to help them stay! Unfortunately no photos/videos (that I've been able to uncover!) of the guys in action for Scotland!
Showing posts with label International coverage. Show all posts
Showing posts with label International coverage. Show all posts
Friday, 3 January 2014
Monday, 16 September 2013
Good morning Australia!
Trying to take a line from Anchorman (i.e. "Good Morning San Diego" - edit, d'oh! - the film makes me giggle on off days so who cares really) in a failed attempt to lighten your day, although it is actually appropriate, given that as I post this, it's approximately 2:40 AEST in the morning according to timeanddate.com (!), but either way, I just wanted to intro in a jovial way, the league system and talent on offer in Australia. I was planning on trying to provide coverage for this, but having not got my act together and the club game standard season pretty much over now that it's turning to winter, I'll have to plan ahead for next year after missing the boat completely almost.
Hockey is a massive sport of interest with a big following in Australia, a good reason why they have teams that have had quite the medal haul each decade for quite some years. But this is not just because they have a strong player to choose from (Canada has about 1400 - I think! - registered hockey players and yet can still compete to Olympic standard in the men's - where there is even less via the split - as well as women's formats, so few but incredibly talented athletes on offer), but because there is quality that is not always seen in other nations, perhaps because of the sports programme run even at state school level education. Another reason why the AHL (Australian Hockey League as opposed to the second tier below the NHL in the States' ice hockey leagues!), which is about to start at the end of next week, is considered one of the strongest league/tournament formats in the world, along with the Hoofdklasse.
Australia school representative standard squads actually compete against some of Europe's and the world's best year in year out, proving their quality in depth; if you think about it, this means their sort of C team at juniors is playing the A team of other country's national standard representatives. With forward thinking, progressive and able coaches who are pushing the game to its best, like Ric Charlesworth and a tried and tested method of doing things for bringing talent through rather than letting into plateau or stagnate. Todd Williams (an ex-Olympic) has also brought his skills and breadth of understanding of the game over to the British Isles, turning around the fortunes of Slough women's, then HWHC and Surbiton men's, just to prove another case in point.
And because of this, they also happen to have a history of strong depth in goalkeeping talent, and world class goalies, like Stephen Mowlam, who was considered the world's best for some time in his playing days. They also happen to stay patient with their goalkeepers, entrusting them with a chance to develop on time rather ahead of it, making sure their confidence is not shot to __ after perhaps struggling with the pressures of goalkeeping made even more substantial by playing at the elite level. With great talent comes great responsibility (as opposed to power, to rearrange that Spiderman quote - again with the randomness) and there is more impetus on letting goalkeepers mature before throwing them to the wolves, but at the same time, making sure there is competition for places, which is an incredibly important factor for success at the Olympics and similar, but ignored largely in another countries across the world. If you look at the squad right now they actually have 4 (yes, four!!), goalkeepers involved in the Olympic build-up training schedule, each given opportunities to prove themselves at international standard during a number of friendlies played over the course of the year outside league standard competition.
First impressions
Below are some quick thoughts on what I've seen so far on doing some independent research to try and get a feel for the hockey out in Australia and therefore have a better understanding of the way their goalies potentially play and know more about what's on offer for them.
Kit
In terms of playing kit, there is quite a lot of variation which is great to see. Rather than moulded copycats or "cookie cutter" goalies as they say in the U.S./Canada in ice hockey (relating to robotic goalies that look good but can't bring the goods when needed in crunch games where the odds are stacked against them), they seem to play in styles that suit their abilities and thus kit to match. Or possibly the opposite, going on what they have available, depends how you look at things I guess!
The helmet/cage combo that's more popular in Holland, Spain and Belgium, is quite popular, a solid but affordable option for those on a budget. With good ventilation for playing in the hot of Australian summers.
And an interesting alternative, is that ice hockey helmets seem more prevalent; Itech's plastic one being the one of choice seemingly, even at lower leagues. This along with Obo masks seem just as popular. So there is a good mix that you might not see so much of say anywhere else than Holland or Belgium perhaps (English goalkeepers seeming to prefer the ice hockey mask/helmets more now). Not sure on the objective data though! Guess it's quite a balance in lots of places.
It seems like although Obo are geographically closer, goalies have to rely on moreso domestically produced kit to play with. Which means there's more users of Gryphon, Mazon and Grays, which could be a good thing, but depends on if it does the job the goalkeeper wants it to and matches their playing style i.e. a tube glove for ground work, larger one for shot stopping upright and so on. And this is even at international level: where George is the only goalkeeper in Obo, 'Clemo' in Gryphon and Charter and Lovell in Mazon. Atlas is a new company in Australia that also makes goalie BA's (it's a good body armour apparently, need to have a look-see though!) and goalie shorts and sticks.
You can even see the goalie in this instructional video wearing all sorts of kit! Including the Brabo lhp which is (not sure how/where he !):
Jerseys
One of the minor things that stood out for me, was the professional looking standard of goalie tops. You get this in footie (soccer) and the Italian brands make great shirts (think Wapping brought them in for their first team), so I can't see why they can't be used in hockey. It also gives a sense of that competitive/pro outlook for players and motivational tools etc. Personally, I think they look pretty snazz and cool (but that's just me, and cool isn't probably called that anymore!) and look a lot like American Football or ice hockey jerseys with the bold, brash style and large size (with air gaps useful for keeping the kit not so sweaty!).
Technique
Technique is also an interested myriad. The stereotype of the "X stance" being widely used is not true as I had first believed. Although some of the junior international goalies do make good use of it to challenge the shooter through visual perception and taking away more of the goal visually by looking big and being closer to the ball as it comes at them. The "Y stance" seems more commonplace and put to use at lower levels, although the high, raised hand position at shoulder height for moving into high shots or drag flicks at penalty corners from a standing position, instead of having to lift them up in a shortened time frame. There is also a bit of inventiveness, with drop kicking used and more active glove use and a challenging style for loose balls (an innovativeness that is brought into equipment customisation as well).
Standard of hockey
The standard of hockey is very high throughout. You don't have to be incredibly talented to be working hard and have that competitive desire to take your hockey seriously. Leagues seem to be structured around townships and regional systems due to the ridiculously long distances to travel for a national league system, hence why the AHL is at a centralised location. You can see the action in one of these regional systems below, with Hamish Coates for the University of West Australia (he has played for Wimbledon and HWHC in the English national leagues as blogged about previously) in action in black and yellow Obo pads. The university sides are also very strong, like in Holland, with youngsters continuining on their high level of play whilst studying. Some of the Olympians are also supported in this way, with a sort of scholarship set-up to make sure they benefit in the long term for education and then career whilst taking time out of work for the serious commitments of playing at that level.
You should be able to find more footage of the league games for similar via banner links.
Thoughts
On review, there is a lot to offer Australian goalkeepers or overseas goalies that want to come over to experience a different culture and different style of play. The goalkeepers are of a high standard, especially at the elite level, and Australia has great depth throughout, which is something that should make other countries considerably jealous. Goalkeepers seem to play their own game in a way that suits them, aware of what kit they need and are serious about their hockey. And it will be fun to anaylse the AHL games over the next coming weeks to discuss this in more detail!
Hockey is a massive sport of interest with a big following in Australia, a good reason why they have teams that have had quite the medal haul each decade for quite some years. But this is not just because they have a strong player to choose from (Canada has about 1400 - I think! - registered hockey players and yet can still compete to Olympic standard in the men's - where there is even less via the split - as well as women's formats, so few but incredibly talented athletes on offer), but because there is quality that is not always seen in other nations, perhaps because of the sports programme run even at state school level education. Another reason why the AHL (Australian Hockey League as opposed to the second tier below the NHL in the States' ice hockey leagues!), which is about to start at the end of next week, is considered one of the strongest league/tournament formats in the world, along with the Hoofdklasse.
Australia school representative standard squads actually compete against some of Europe's and the world's best year in year out, proving their quality in depth; if you think about it, this means their sort of C team at juniors is playing the A team of other country's national standard representatives. With forward thinking, progressive and able coaches who are pushing the game to its best, like Ric Charlesworth and a tried and tested method of doing things for bringing talent through rather than letting into plateau or stagnate. Todd Williams (an ex-Olympic) has also brought his skills and breadth of understanding of the game over to the British Isles, turning around the fortunes of Slough women's, then HWHC and Surbiton men's, just to prove another case in point.
And because of this, they also happen to have a history of strong depth in goalkeeping talent, and world class goalies, like Stephen Mowlam, who was considered the world's best for some time in his playing days. They also happen to stay patient with their goalkeepers, entrusting them with a chance to develop on time rather ahead of it, making sure their confidence is not shot to __ after perhaps struggling with the pressures of goalkeeping made even more substantial by playing at the elite level. With great talent comes great responsibility (as opposed to power, to rearrange that Spiderman quote - again with the randomness) and there is more impetus on letting goalkeepers mature before throwing them to the wolves, but at the same time, making sure there is competition for places, which is an incredibly important factor for success at the Olympics and similar, but ignored largely in another countries across the world. If you look at the squad right now they actually have 4 (yes, four!!), goalkeepers involved in the Olympic build-up training schedule, each given opportunities to prove themselves at international standard during a number of friendlies played over the course of the year outside league standard competition.
First impressions
Below are some quick thoughts on what I've seen so far on doing some independent research to try and get a feel for the hockey out in Australia and therefore have a better understanding of the way their goalies potentially play and know more about what's on offer for them.
Kit
In terms of playing kit, there is quite a lot of variation which is great to see. Rather than moulded copycats or "cookie cutter" goalies as they say in the U.S./Canada in ice hockey (relating to robotic goalies that look good but can't bring the goods when needed in crunch games where the odds are stacked against them), they seem to play in styles that suit their abilities and thus kit to match. Or possibly the opposite, going on what they have available, depends how you look at things I guess!
The helmet/cage combo that's more popular in Holland, Spain and Belgium, is quite popular, a solid but affordable option for those on a budget. With good ventilation for playing in the hot of Australian summers.
And an interesting alternative, is that ice hockey helmets seem more prevalent; Itech's plastic one being the one of choice seemingly, even at lower leagues. This along with Obo masks seem just as popular. So there is a good mix that you might not see so much of say anywhere else than Holland or Belgium perhaps (English goalkeepers seeming to prefer the ice hockey mask/helmets more now). Not sure on the objective data though! Guess it's quite a balance in lots of places.
It seems like although Obo are geographically closer, goalies have to rely on moreso domestically produced kit to play with. Which means there's more users of Gryphon, Mazon and Grays, which could be a good thing, but depends on if it does the job the goalkeeper wants it to and matches their playing style i.e. a tube glove for ground work, larger one for shot stopping upright and so on. And this is even at international level: where George is the only goalkeeper in Obo, 'Clemo' in Gryphon and Charter and Lovell in Mazon. Atlas is a new company in Australia that also makes goalie BA's (it's a good body armour apparently, need to have a look-see though!) and goalie shorts and sticks.
You can even see the goalie in this instructional video wearing all sorts of kit! Including the Brabo lhp which is (not sure how/where he !):
Arm protection also seems to be used less at this moment in time, with a move away from the percentage based blocking style favoured oft times more so in the past. Merging styles with a more reactional, acting style for the better, with a hybrid with elbow pads and so on.
So all in all, it's a real mix of kit and styles rather than one specific approach. Which is interesting considering the idea of an established programme of coaching that often doesn't suit each goalkeeper's needs and sometimes become an instiutionalised way of thinking that doesn't work.
Jerseys
One of the minor things that stood out for me, was the professional looking standard of goalie tops. You get this in footie (soccer) and the Italian brands make great shirts (think Wapping brought them in for their first team), so I can't see why they can't be used in hockey. It also gives a sense of that competitive/pro outlook for players and motivational tools etc. Personally, I think they look pretty snazz and cool (but that's just me, and cool isn't probably called that anymore!) and look a lot like American Football or ice hockey jerseys with the bold, brash style and large size (with air gaps useful for keeping the kit not so sweaty!).
Technique
Technique is also an interested myriad. The stereotype of the "X stance" being widely used is not true as I had first believed. Although some of the junior international goalies do make good use of it to challenge the shooter through visual perception and taking away more of the goal visually by looking big and being closer to the ball as it comes at them. The "Y stance" seems more commonplace and put to use at lower levels, although the high, raised hand position at shoulder height for moving into high shots or drag flicks at penalty corners from a standing position, instead of having to lift them up in a shortened time frame. There is also a bit of inventiveness, with drop kicking used and more active glove use and a challenging style for loose balls (an innovativeness that is brought into equipment customisation as well).
Standard of hockey
The standard of hockey is very high throughout. You don't have to be incredibly talented to be working hard and have that competitive desire to take your hockey seriously. Leagues seem to be structured around townships and regional systems due to the ridiculously long distances to travel for a national league system, hence why the AHL is at a centralised location. You can see the action in one of these regional systems below, with Hamish Coates for the University of West Australia (he has played for Wimbledon and HWHC in the English national leagues as blogged about previously) in action in black and yellow Obo pads. The university sides are also very strong, like in Holland, with youngsters continuining on their high level of play whilst studying. Some of the Olympians are also supported in this way, with a sort of scholarship set-up to make sure they benefit in the long term for education and then career whilst taking time out of work for the serious commitments of playing at that level.
You should be able to find more footage of the league games for similar via banner links.
Thoughts
On review, there is a lot to offer Australian goalkeepers or overseas goalies that want to come over to experience a different culture and different style of play. The goalkeepers are of a high standard, especially at the elite level, and Australia has great depth throughout, which is something that should make other countries considerably jealous. Goalkeepers seem to play their own game in a way that suits them, aware of what kit they need and are serious about their hockey. And it will be fun to anaylse the AHL games over the next coming weeks to discuss this in more detail!
Sunday, 25 August 2013
Gibson a victim of her own making?
Now that I've got a bit more time to review the recent Eurochampionship games (which, now being over is a little late!), first impressions of the women's game, one thought was on Amy Gibson and a victim of her own success and fears or nervous tension afflicting her, rather than loosening those worries and enjoying the moment perhaps. With the women just as strong as the men's (in my opinion, sexism should have died already; women can drag flick just as well and play a strong technical game at the elite level, are well trained and talented etc. etc. etc.), I was a little shocked to be honest with her performances given the level of responsibility and thus accountability to her team and nation. I know she's young and all, but a youngster with the right level of maturity mentally to go with god given ability is possible for those that have it all technically; just look at Marc Andre ter Stegen at the moment or Casillas or Buffon in their early years.
Abi Walker has strong fundamentals and is a good fit at international level, but obviously Scotland want to blood their future starter in relation to next year's Commonwealth Games. She has time to grow and evolve given her age, but in any other sport, that level of competition needs to be there for self improvement and desire and fight to play as well as possible, for that push to perform at your best to be there (if struggling with psychological barriers). Yes young goalkeepers are going to make mistakes and their coach needs to be aware of this when riding out the early speed bumps (just look at Joe Hart's career) but to this level is a tad concerning, only if it continues though. It's quite a step up from juniors to senior and representative hockey can be a tough nut to crack.
In the game against Spain she was never going to get anywhere a fast strike smashed into the corner of her goal staying rooted at the goal line. Not at this level or with that level of power and placement. She really, really needed to have stepped out off the post to challenge and then attacked the shot by pushing in on the angle to cut off the shot, rather than apathetically do nothing to get near the ball. Attacking angles and positioning as such is fundamental to save making at any level and to counter the speed of this level, is incredibly essential. Sitting on your goal line is not challenging the shot, it's the direct opposite!
In the game against Germany she managed to effectively score on herself by pushing the rebound into her own net. With muscle memory and the 1000 times rule and so on, the reflex is instantaneous if trained in as a sub-consious, especially here as she reacted to a change in angle due to the redirect. It is all well and good having a learnt skill but if it is not the appropriate selection then that learnt skill is pointless and ineffective. If it is of no use in this situation, then why use it? I might just walk off the pitch after that kind of embarassment if I was in that position. It's a howler through and through to be brutally honest. One that I hope she quickly forgets, as it could really knock her confidence; it's the kind of thing you lose sleep over as a goalie, so that smile and balancing self deprecation does say she can handle the pressure, in spite of her young years.
The mental game is just as, if not, more important, part of the table of elite attributes and not all goalkeepers have thick skin and can be really fragile after a bad bounce, so at least that is a strong element that won't need working on! At that angle it's not going to get past the post by swatting at it; instead, she needs to turn her glove clockwise and push away, as they do "on the continent" in Holland and Belgium, as Vanasch would as demonstrated in the other recent blog post, rather than anti-clockwise and over rotate or turn the ball into the goal rather than away.
A first save conundrum is the problem for other goals in other games, concerned over how to react or where to put the rebound (and then putting it back into play, which is going to be exploited and used at this level where everything minute counts greatly), which De Gea say was struggling with (just an anology, no soft hands or catching in hockey!!). The German goalkeeper in comparison was strong off their line as a sweeper, looking big and quick out, to block well.
This is international hockey for crying out loud, not a knockabout between friends, so the lens the athletes are under is going to be scrutinous and tough going. I'm not trying to have a dig, this is sports journalism! And for certain sports people really love as a nation which they get behind, they nitpick like analysis lovers with geeky stats and pass success rates like a pro coach, even in cricket (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/cricket/23818166). I think she can work on her talent base and end up a stronger and more efficient goalkeeper, if she works hard to improve on what she is capable (it is often difficult to see your ability as a youngster if you are without the right balance of life experience), but for now it's a little worrying for this level of competition. Almost a reflection on the state of play with breaking in goalkeepers, on why goalkeepers need time to develop than be rushed too early wherein confidence can be destroyed thus destroying the goalie's game and self confidence required to compete so well.
If this was football or a similar sport supported to that depth with in depth analysis on Sky (or something!), then the media would destroy our sport's athletes if they were struggling. This, hockey, is our beautiful game, and if we want it to have the same coverage and level of technical analysis and punditry, then we need to be passionate and appropriate with our deconstruction of goals scored (without heavy handedness like Roy Keane and unsurmounted, unjustified commentary!), about it at the same time. So I hope I don't sound too out of order. These things go hand in hand for the elite level, it's not amateur by standard or effort even if it is an "amateur game" (playing at that level, there's nothing amateur about it with that level of experience and talent!).
You can't expect world class talent to match if there is no desire to improve or evolve as a player. Sometimes it is cruel to be kind, a case of sparking that desire to disprove the "haters" (or whatever else you call undue callousness!) and show them how wrong they truly are. There is quite a difference between ripping on someone for the sake of it, versus constructive criticism which was given to us in writing exercises at university for example. If you want to be the best, then taking on board evaluations and stepping out of yourself and looking at your own game to improve it, it's part and parcel. Compare Gibson's performance to Belgium's 19 year old goalkeeper, D'Hooge, who played in last year's Olympics at the spritely age of 18 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/hockey/23769553#asset): talent speaks for itself.
Abi Walker has strong fundamentals and is a good fit at international level, but obviously Scotland want to blood their future starter in relation to next year's Commonwealth Games. She has time to grow and evolve given her age, but in any other sport, that level of competition needs to be there for self improvement and desire and fight to play as well as possible, for that push to perform at your best to be there (if struggling with psychological barriers). Yes young goalkeepers are going to make mistakes and their coach needs to be aware of this when riding out the early speed bumps (just look at Joe Hart's career) but to this level is a tad concerning, only if it continues though. It's quite a step up from juniors to senior and representative hockey can be a tough nut to crack.
In the game against Spain she was never going to get anywhere a fast strike smashed into the corner of her goal staying rooted at the goal line. Not at this level or with that level of power and placement. She really, really needed to have stepped out off the post to challenge and then attacked the shot by pushing in on the angle to cut off the shot, rather than apathetically do nothing to get near the ball. Attacking angles and positioning as such is fundamental to save making at any level and to counter the speed of this level, is incredibly essential. Sitting on your goal line is not challenging the shot, it's the direct opposite!
In the game against Germany she managed to effectively score on herself by pushing the rebound into her own net. With muscle memory and the 1000 times rule and so on, the reflex is instantaneous if trained in as a sub-consious, especially here as she reacted to a change in angle due to the redirect. It is all well and good having a learnt skill but if it is not the appropriate selection then that learnt skill is pointless and ineffective. If it is of no use in this situation, then why use it? I might just walk off the pitch after that kind of embarassment if I was in that position. It's a howler through and through to be brutally honest. One that I hope she quickly forgets, as it could really knock her confidence; it's the kind of thing you lose sleep over as a goalie, so that smile and balancing self deprecation does say she can handle the pressure, in spite of her young years.
The mental game is just as, if not, more important, part of the table of elite attributes and not all goalkeepers have thick skin and can be really fragile after a bad bounce, so at least that is a strong element that won't need working on! At that angle it's not going to get past the post by swatting at it; instead, she needs to turn her glove clockwise and push away, as they do "on the continent" in Holland and Belgium, as Vanasch would as demonstrated in the other recent blog post, rather than anti-clockwise and over rotate or turn the ball into the goal rather than away.
A first save conundrum is the problem for other goals in other games, concerned over how to react or where to put the rebound (and then putting it back into play, which is going to be exploited and used at this level where everything minute counts greatly), which De Gea say was struggling with (just an anology, no soft hands or catching in hockey!!). The German goalkeeper in comparison was strong off their line as a sweeper, looking big and quick out, to block well.
This is international hockey for crying out loud, not a knockabout between friends, so the lens the athletes are under is going to be scrutinous and tough going. I'm not trying to have a dig, this is sports journalism! And for certain sports people really love as a nation which they get behind, they nitpick like analysis lovers with geeky stats and pass success rates like a pro coach, even in cricket (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/cricket/23818166). I think she can work on her talent base and end up a stronger and more efficient goalkeeper, if she works hard to improve on what she is capable (it is often difficult to see your ability as a youngster if you are without the right balance of life experience), but for now it's a little worrying for this level of competition. Almost a reflection on the state of play with breaking in goalkeepers, on why goalkeepers need time to develop than be rushed too early wherein confidence can be destroyed thus destroying the goalie's game and self confidence required to compete so well.
If this was football or a similar sport supported to that depth with in depth analysis on Sky (or something!), then the media would destroy our sport's athletes if they were struggling. This, hockey, is our beautiful game, and if we want it to have the same coverage and level of technical analysis and punditry, then we need to be passionate and appropriate with our deconstruction of goals scored (without heavy handedness like Roy Keane and unsurmounted, unjustified commentary!), about it at the same time. So I hope I don't sound too out of order. These things go hand in hand for the elite level, it's not amateur by standard or effort even if it is an "amateur game" (playing at that level, there's nothing amateur about it with that level of experience and talent!).
You can't expect world class talent to match if there is no desire to improve or evolve as a player. Sometimes it is cruel to be kind, a case of sparking that desire to disprove the "haters" (or whatever else you call undue callousness!) and show them how wrong they truly are. There is quite a difference between ripping on someone for the sake of it, versus constructive criticism which was given to us in writing exercises at university for example. If you want to be the best, then taking on board evaluations and stepping out of yourself and looking at your own game to improve it, it's part and parcel. Compare Gibson's performance to Belgium's 19 year old goalkeeper, D'Hooge, who played in last year's Olympics at the spritely age of 18 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/hockey/23769553#asset): talent speaks for itself.
Monday, 19 August 2013
Vanasch avoids blushes to help Belgium to win
In Belgium's first game of the tournament, there was little to separate the score line between themselves and the Olympic winners, but the talents of Tom Boon were enough to seal the deal. The only goal conceded by Vanasch in between the posts for Belgium as he has been after impressing at the Olympics and in club competition at home, was one for the blooper reels. The embarassing concession was caused by a deflection near the top of the circle after a ball drilled in to the top of the D was latched onto by a free German player. Looking to react on instinct on the angle he was maintaining at the near post, he managed to push the ball away on reflex but in such a way that it bounced back off the springy pitch and through his open body shape for a goal. This could have been avoided by getting the body behind the ball to avoid gaps for the ball to squeak through and bringing the glove over and behind rather than swatting at it. Breaking down the motion to the basic fundamentals of any other glove save near the body, to avoid such embarassing incidents, would be of use.
The goals conceded by Germany were due to decision making and not so world class reactions from the right hand from Jacobi (being extremely critical). The low drag flick wide of his right leg was difficult to deal with when not challenging out far enough, and could have been stopped by an extended dive out with the rhp to cover the area that his attempted split could not reach; the dive giving him that extra reach necessary. This area is obviously pretty popular for drag flickers as the goalkeeper has to decide whether to commit with the leg or dive and glove with the ball that close to the body and any indecision or over thinking can easily go punished. Watching the ball all the way through and punching into the save as done with the left hand, replicated for the right, would have been more pro-active and effiective, versus simply trying to raise the face of the glove in the vain hope of getting behind the high flick from Boon, as he did.
The goals conceded by Germany were due to decision making and not so world class reactions from the right hand from Jacobi (being extremely critical). The low drag flick wide of his right leg was difficult to deal with when not challenging out far enough, and could have been stopped by an extended dive out with the rhp to cover the area that his attempted split could not reach; the dive giving him that extra reach necessary. This area is obviously pretty popular for drag flickers as the goalkeeper has to decide whether to commit with the leg or dive and glove with the ball that close to the body and any indecision or over thinking can easily go punished. Watching the ball all the way through and punching into the save as done with the left hand, replicated for the right, would have been more pro-active and effiective, versus simply trying to raise the face of the glove in the vain hope of getting behind the high flick from Boon, as he did.
Monday, 8 July 2013
Reuss stars in Germany's finals win
Reuss got the nod over Jacobi for the last game of the round-robin set-up in this stage of the World Hockey League final semi-final. The youngster didn't have much to do, but made an important double save, scrambling across to his left post after the initial spot and getting a piece of it with his right leg. Germany than took the lead and cruised to the win after Vivaldi deflected a save into his own net (oops! Not one for the memories), which begs the question over deeply critical analysis over the uses of certain types of glove and their rebound properties and how to control that rebound, especially during a reflex save where the impetus is on stopping the shot rather than focusing on pushing through and away.
You can see the highlights below:
You can see the highlights below:
Saturday, 6 July 2013
Brabo lhp proving popular with Subramaniam and Shah
Not a massive sighting, but the WHL round stage at the moment has provided an interesting equipment sighting. Pakistan's start Imran Shah and Subramaniam for Malaysia are both using a different piece of kit to normal (or, at least, since I last saw them!). The two TK foam wearers are also making use of the Brabo lhp. The glove is supposed to have quite a ping to the rebound (especially and is popular in Holland (Brabo are a Dutch brand anyway!); with Pirmin Blaak using it, alongside Stockmann and Jenniskens, but is interesting to see it being used abroad.
You can see Shah using the glove here:
And also for Subramaniam, as the clip will demonstrate:
Would be interesting to know their thoughts and analysis and what inspired the changeover. The glove has a typical flat face unlike Obo's version which is designed to bring the ball down and away for kicking clear and also a large face and strong rebound. Good to see goalkeepers mixing up their kit according to their playing styles, as not all equipment produced by particular companies always fit the specific attributes of certain playing styles down to a tee.
You can see Shah using the glove here:
And also for Subramaniam, as the clip will demonstrate:
Would be interesting to know their thoughts and analysis and what inspired the changeover. The glove has a typical flat face unlike Obo's version which is designed to bring the ball down and away for kicking clear and also a large face and strong rebound. Good to see goalkeepers mixing up their kit according to their playing styles, as not all equipment produced by particular companies always fit the specific attributes of certain playing styles down to a tee.
Friday, 28 June 2013
Forrester and Somerville starting for Scotland
David Forrester and Gavin Somerville were both in action (and fine form as well!) for Scotland over the weekend of the 15th, so a fortnight ago, against Wales in some friendly games. Somerville obviously played for Kelburne and got some game time in the Euro Hockey League a few years back now, is at Western Wildcats now and back in contention, with this opportunity. Forrester has also played in the GB Super League previously and making the most of his deserved chance, too. This leaves things in a confusing state (as a watchman anyway!) goalkeeping wise for Scotland considering their immense depth if you think about it.
Fulton and Carr were called up for cover when their other options were injured a couple of years ago in the Champions Challenge Two competition (link) but have starters in the form of now-Premier-league-starter Cachia at Sheffield and Dick at Holcombe, along with former U21 star Alexander at Indian Gym and other options in the Scottish national league. Quite some challenge to choose who to pick. There's only one spot up for grabs when playing in goal after all!
Fulton and Carr were called up for cover when their other options were injured a couple of years ago in the Champions Challenge Two competition (link) but have starters in the form of now-Premier-league-starter Cachia at Sheffield and Dick at Holcombe, along with former U21 star Alexander at Indian Gym and other options in the Scottish national league. Quite some challenge to choose who to pick. There's only one spot up for grabs when playing in goal after all!
Gibson makes debut for England A
English youngster Harry Gibson made his debut for England A last weekend (not sure on the specifics yet, very poor journalism!). The Loughborough starter with a promising future is one of the youngest goalkeepers of late to do so, following in similar footsteps to Patrick Smith who graduated from the U21's into the A side. With Smith moving on to being around as second choice behind Pinner, and James Bailey developing well at Reading, there will be some foreseeable competition in the near future as England's goalkeeping future start to battle it out for competitive places!
Monday, 17 June 2013
Manchester starting again for New Zealand
Whilst it seemed like Hamish McGregor was being given the nod for New Zealand as first choice, it appears that this isn't the case as Manchester got the start over him in today's game against India. This is a little confusing given the current run of things. In a tournament like this changing goalkeepers could be counter productive or even detrimental to the back four and resulting team performance as they keep adjusting to each goalkeeper's style of play, as goes with the Kookaburras (potentially, doesn't seem to be affecting them that much!!). Although there is no rush for them to decide on their starter for Rio and whilst it seems that the youngsters are being given good playing opportunities to develop, as Pontifex is still available. The Mazon foam wearer managed to keep things tied up as his team missed a great opportunity to score in the dying end of the game. You can see his performance in the video below:
Saturday, 15 June 2013
Fitzgerald switches to Mercian rhp design
Equipment sighting wise, Ireland's second choice David Fitzgerald, is currently using Mercian's recent rhp design with the more popular larger profile stopping area and diagonal design to help push away shots more easily when connecting with the right hand (rather than bringing the left hand across!). Fitzgerald who has taken over from previous second choice Iain Walker is currently backing up Hoofdklasse standout David Harte at the current World Hockey League tournament competition round in Rotterdam. The Monkstown starter is proving his worth in the Irish national league, helping his team to win IHL final in May.
You can see him in action with it here:
You can see him in action with it here:
Fernandez Spain's new second choice
With Cortes clearly Spain's first choice and staying that way for some time, it looks as if Spain have changed up their other goalkeeping options, with youngster Mario Fernandez of Real Sociedad de Tenis Santander (quite a mouthful when speaking it!) who is also the U21's choice, being included as the back-up option for the current round of the World Hockey League. Xavi Trenches was the second choice at the London Olympics, coming on in a cameo appearance for his squad near to the end of one of the round-up games (I think) and in spite of his strong league and Euro Hockey League appearances, doesn't seem to be part of Spain's longer term plans. Fernandez has the chance to push for action if things stay as they are, being the potential successor to Spain's goalkeeping crown when Cortes does eventually retire (given he'll be at the Rio Olympics!).
Sunday, 9 June 2013
Bailey makes full international debut
In the third and final match of the Belgium series, Reading's first choice goalkeeper was substituted for George Pinner and took over in the sticks for the second half. Bailey has obviously rocketed from junior international inclusion during his time at Old Loughtonians, before going on to Bath to start as their first choice and then across to Reading to become a premier league starter. With European experience this year and playing time in the premier league division after beating out Jamie Legg, he has cemented the next stage in his development as an elite goalkeeper. Opportunities with England should only further his development and progress his playing ability and chances. It sounds like both corner goals he allowed were to his left, so that sounds like a detail to work on.
Monday, 27 May 2013
Manchester and McGregor still splitting starts for NZ
With the number one spot up for grabs for the New Zealand men's national team, it likes like Devon Manchester and Hamish McGregor are still splitting starts! In the friendly series with Korea (who have also played Australia in a similar series), the two goalkeepers shared starts against their opposition. It looks like McGregor has gone back to wearing his Mazon elbow pads, so not sure why he ditched them in previous action in the Azlan Shah, who made a highlight diving attempt for the cameras!
Saturday, 18 May 2013
World Hockey League sees changes for Poland's goalkeeping depth chart...
At the most recent stage of the WHL, the teams have seen a few goalkeeper changes. St Germain's second choice is splitting starts with Lille's starter for France and Jamie Cachia and Allan Dick have been doing the same and Dave Carter started the first game for Canada over Antoni Kindler (who started for them in the next match I think!). Gucasoff is still backing up Vanasch after doing so at the Champions Trophy and Olympics (I *think* before that).
More importantly, it sees some significant changes for Poland. Poland's starter for quite some time was Mariusz Chyla who had strong experience at the international level and in the Euro Hockey League. Chyla was also the indoor team starter and was quite a dominant force for Poland's indoor team who are arguably one of the best indoor teams in the world. But he was getting on in years and an eventual successor was needed, with Matuszak pushing for starts behind him.
The first choice is now Arkadiusz Matuszak. Matuszak is playing at Schaerweijde in the Hoodklasse as mentioned in a post previously. Random note, but he has made the kit change from TK rhp to the Obo hi rebound with a larger blocking profile versus before. Waiting his turn for quite some time behind Chyla's domination of the number one position, he has come out of his shadow and showcasing Poland's goalkeeping talent (this goalkeeping display by a Polish goalkeeper has to be one of my all time favourites! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Je7qK2cua_Q).
Lukasz Domachowski has been drafted in as the second choice now. Domachowski was at KS Pomorzanin Torun, but then left for Spain to help his playing development and opportunities. A smart move that should see him rise the ranks, mature, get experience and offer Poland more goalkeeping depth opportunities.
The two have been splitting starts, like a lot of the teams at this stage of the tournament. In the game versus Scotland, it looks like Matuszak was subbed in to play with his more experienced status against the penalty shuttles that took place.
More importantly, it sees some significant changes for Poland. Poland's starter for quite some time was Mariusz Chyla who had strong experience at the international level and in the Euro Hockey League. Chyla was also the indoor team starter and was quite a dominant force for Poland's indoor team who are arguably one of the best indoor teams in the world. But he was getting on in years and an eventual successor was needed, with Matuszak pushing for starts behind him.
The first choice is now Arkadiusz Matuszak. Matuszak is playing at Schaerweijde in the Hoodklasse as mentioned in a post previously. Random note, but he has made the kit change from TK rhp to the Obo hi rebound with a larger blocking profile versus before. Waiting his turn for quite some time behind Chyla's domination of the number one position, he has come out of his shadow and showcasing Poland's goalkeeping talent (this goalkeeping display by a Polish goalkeeper has to be one of my all time favourites! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Je7qK2cua_Q).
Lukasz Domachowski has been drafted in as the second choice now. Domachowski was at KS Pomorzanin Torun, but then left for Spain to help his playing development and opportunities. A smart move that should see him rise the ranks, mature, get experience and offer Poland more goalkeeping depth opportunities.
The two have been splitting starts, like a lot of the teams at this stage of the tournament. In the game versus Scotland, it looks like Matuszak was subbed in to play with his more experienced status against the penalty shuttles that took place.
Sunday, 12 May 2013
Quico back benching?!
Having reported rightly so that Cortes is in good form right now, I was a little confused to see him not playing in the follow on game after HGC. Obviously the second choice was playing and did well, keeping a clean sheet. I'm not sure if this is due to other circumstances (not sure yet, haven't managed to find out, but assume so!). Which is perhaps due to international duty callup or training, given the World Hockey League and the European tournament coming up soon in Belgium, and I'm not sure if there is any possibility of him being injured.
Saturday, 11 May 2013
Quico trending upwards!
With more footage to check out how Cortes is getting on right now, it looks like the well liked Spanish international is definitely back on track with his goalkeeping performances! Shining like the goalie star he is capable of being, a surge in performance and confidence has seen him play to the ability and dominance he has displayed so well previously.
In the game against Vordaan, he managed a clean sheet, which seems to be something he hasn't managed all season (as far as I know!), so the confidence must be flowing! A spectacular close-in save at 1:20 was decisive in ensuring this! He dealt well with a breakaway at 1:38, dragging the attacker wide and making use of the defender's help to ensure no goal was allowed. He was also covering shots, especially well, (just in case!) even though it looked like the ball was going over the bar, at 2:34. And at 1:03 he went for the interception, which is important in showing he is looking to, versus being more passive in previous games.
And against a more powerful HGC side, he was playing really well, only getting beaten by a crafty Barry Middleton maneuvre (at 2:17) as he lifted the ball over Quico who was splayed out on the floor as he . A significant improvement was in him making interceptions like at 1:53 which otherwise haven't been happening in previous games, thus costing him and his team. More importantly, he looked dominant on short corners, which is his usual strength, like at 1:57. He made an awesome and essential save (at 2:45), scrambling and diving across to cover a ball going to his bottom left corner, which would have otherwise see an own goal conceded as the defender trying to help out managed a redirect back on goal! palming the ball away casually as he moved across to his right at 1:14.
Great to see him playing like he can, as one of the world's top ten and hopefully long may this continue as he looks to hold onto his spot for the Brazilian Olympics, but also to impress on a stage like that of the Hoofdklasse.
In the game against Vordaan, he managed a clean sheet, which seems to be something he hasn't managed all season (as far as I know!), so the confidence must be flowing! A spectacular close-in save at 1:20 was decisive in ensuring this! He dealt well with a breakaway at 1:38, dragging the attacker wide and making use of the defender's help to ensure no goal was allowed. He was also covering shots, especially well, (just in case!) even though it looked like the ball was going over the bar, at 2:34. And at 1:03 he went for the interception, which is important in showing he is looking to, versus being more passive in previous games.
And against a more powerful HGC side, he was playing really well, only getting beaten by a crafty Barry Middleton maneuvre (at 2:17) as he lifted the ball over Quico who was splayed out on the floor as he . A significant improvement was in him making interceptions like at 1:53 which otherwise haven't been happening in previous games, thus costing him and his team. More importantly, he looked dominant on short corners, which is his usual strength, like at 1:57. He made an awesome and essential save (at 2:45), scrambling and diving across to cover a ball going to his bottom left corner, which would have otherwise see an own goal conceded as the defender trying to help out managed a redirect back on goal! palming the ball away casually as he moved across to his right at 1:14.
Great to see him playing like he can, as one of the world's top ten and hopefully long may this continue as he looks to hold onto his spot for the Brazilian Olympics, but also to impress on a stage like that of the Hoofdklasse.
Pereira rising up the ranks
Another goalkeeper who has moved on from U21 action and is being considered by his national team, is Canada's Kevin Pereira. Pereira was awarded goalkeeper of the tournament for the recent PanAmerican U21's tournament and is impressing well with his current performances and strong development. Pereira looks like he is the third choice for the Canadian team right now (which may just mean he is a travelling reserve due to squad size/restrictions etc.?!). If you watch this amazing save by Carter at a Canadian training session, you can see him in the bottom left corner watching on as Carter "takes" shots.
I don't speak Argentinian or any Hispanic languages (unfortunately, really need to work on that!), so can't really talk yout through the footage, but it speaks for itself, as they say! If you're patient (it's not a highlight reel; it's the full recording!), you can see him making some stunning saves like the diving stop with his rhp at 0:28:15 against a short corner, showing off the athleticism that coaching staff are quick to pick up on and notice for analysis.
I don't speak Argentinian or any Hispanic languages (unfortunately, really need to work on that!), so can't really talk yout through the footage, but it speaks for itself, as they say! If you're patient (it's not a highlight reel; it's the full recording!), you can see him making some stunning saves like the diving stop with his rhp at 0:28:15 against a short corner, showing off the athleticism that coaching staff are quick to pick up on and notice for analysis.
Reuss graduates well from U21's
Germany's current second choice goalkeeper Reuss seems to be the only international who has graduated directly from U21's action recently around the hockey community. Of course Blaak did so a little while ago and Hayward impressed enough to get a chance with Australia A, but no-one else has really done so! This sees him essentially leapfrog Crefelder's Sakowsky who played well in the 2009 JWC. That's quite something and having played in last year's Champions Trophy in Australia, he looks like he is a sure fire inclusion for the German national team in years to come. Composed and assured for someone playing beyond his years, with a strong talent base to work from, he could go pretty far, so it's on his shoulders whether he wants to put the work in!
Here you can see him in action in last year's European tournament games, with some of his usual impressive save making at short corners, demonstrating aggressive and attacking play, with strong patience and positioning as he blocks from a standing position:
Edit: in writing this I just realised Chris Rea obviously went straight from USA U21's action to full men's team games in the World League round in Brazil. So Reuss isn't on his own in that!!
Here you can see him in action in last year's European tournament games, with some of his usual impressive save making at short corners, demonstrating aggressive and attacking play, with strong patience and positioning as he blocks from a standing position:
Edit: in writing this I just realised Chris Rea obviously went straight from USA U21's action to full men's team games in the World League round in Brazil. So Reuss isn't on his own in that!!
Thursday, 9 May 2013
Hong Kong Sixes sees international goalkeepers partaking
A bit late reporting on this, but the Hockey Kong Sixes tournament a little while ago saw a few international goalkeepers taking part in the smaller format tournament. England's James Fair played for this English based side, whilst Australia's Andrew Charter obviously took part for Australia's side! I'm not sure which club Holland's goalkeeper plays in though! Good to see a tournament like this in the new format with a few international stars about, including some top goalkeepers!
Lovell pushing for starts for the Kookaburras
Newly added Lovell looks like a shoe in for the odds of becoming Australia's next starter, publicly declaring his desire to push for number one spot, which will raise a few eyebrows and provide some good fuel for the fire of healthy competition for Australia's goalkeeping depth chart. Having impressed in the AHL recently for West Australia, enough to get into the Australia A side under the watchful eye of head coach Rick Charlesworth, Lovell is getting his chance at friendly games, within the current Korea series, and has clearly stated his intentions of pushing for starts and competing for a place within the potential Olympic squad down the line.
Clemons is also getting an opportunity as another addition to the full men's squad (which will probably be trimmed at some stage as the calendar for the next Olympics reaches its destination date). Meaning there are quite of number of talent goalkeepers available who are all trying to impress Charlesworth for further selection and Australia are quite stacked for goalkeeping talent in comparison to a lot of other hockey nations. But this seems to have become the case for quite some talent, although Holland are also in a good position with their healthy crop of goalkeepers! With no clear cut starter (although it may sound dreamy to say!) after Burger "hung up the pads" internationally (he's still playing at club level!), it's anyone's guess at who and any of their opportunities to be taken, if they work hard enough to follow that dream.
Clemons is also getting an opportunity as another addition to the full men's squad (which will probably be trimmed at some stage as the calendar for the next Olympics reaches its destination date). Meaning there are quite of number of talent goalkeepers available who are all trying to impress Charlesworth for further selection and Australia are quite stacked for goalkeeping talent in comparison to a lot of other hockey nations. But this seems to have become the case for quite some talent, although Holland are also in a good position with their healthy crop of goalkeepers! With no clear cut starter (although it may sound dreamy to say!) after Burger "hung up the pads" internationally (he's still playing at club level!), it's anyone's guess at who and any of their opportunities to be taken, if they work hard enough to follow that dream.
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