Sports Bulletin Report
Lausanne, Switzerland:-It was a day of drama, late goals, sublime skills, mesmerising teamwork and magnificent individual performances. As the FIH Hockey Pro League nears its final stages, the hockey action on offer has reached extraordinary levels. Whether it is the sheer power of a Stephanie vanden Borre penalty corner, the precision of a Xan de Waard pass or the teamwork that led to the India men's opening goal, the choice of best moments runs long following this weekend of hockey.
Spain kicked things off by overcoming a spirited and resolute USA team. Netherlands women looked ominously good as they outplayed Germany, while Germany men turned the tables on the Netherlands when they grabbed the momentum and all three points after a sparkling second half performance.
Belgium men and women both found success against India, albeit in very different ways. Belgium Red Panthers seemed to hit a new gear as they strode to a comprehensive 5-0 victory. The men had to battle to the final seconds of a game that was full of everything that is good about hockey – pace, skill, teamwork and the courage to take risks.
FIH Pro League (Results):
Sportcentrum Wilrijkse Plein-Antwerp (BEL)
Result: Men’s Match 65
Belgium 3, India 2
Player of the Match: Arthur de Sloover (BEL)
Umpires: David Tomlinson (NZL), Coen van Bunge (NED) Caroline van de Leur (BEL)
Result: Men’s Match 64
Germany 4, Netherlands 1
Player of the Match: Teo Hinrichs (GER)
Umpires: Bruce Bale (ENG), Jakob Mejzlik (CZE), Ivona Makar (CRO - Video)
Result: Women’s Match 58
Spain 3, USA 2
Player of the Match: Georgina Oliva (ESP)
Umpires: Laurine Delforge (BEL), Liu Xiaoying (CHN), David Tomlinson (NZL -video)
Result: Women’s Match 59
Germany 1, Netherlands 3
Player of the Match: Laurien Leurink (NED)
Umpires: Celine Martin-Schmets (BEL), Ivona Makar (CRO), Jakub Mejzlik (CZE-video)
Result: Women's Match 60
Belgium 5, India 0
Player of the Match:
Umpires: Hannah Harrison (ENG) Liu Xiaoying (CHN) Michelle Meister (GER- video)
