CHAMPIONS TROPHY: Battling England keep alive medal hopes
A battling comeback secured England's men their first hockey Champions League win over the Netherlands in five attempts - a victory which keeps alive their medal hopes in Mönchengladbach.
VALUABLE: England's 4-3 win over the Netherlands keeps alive their Champions Trophy medal hopes (hockeyimages.co.uk)
After two defeats and a draw England needed at win to keep alive any hopes of playing in a medal playoff on Sunday and an opening goal in the third minute underlined their intent.
Surbiton's Richard Alexander and Reading's Simon Mantell gave Jason Lee's men the first half lead but three first half goals in just over 20 minutes from Rogier Hofman, Jeroen Hertzberger and Mink van der Weerden put the Dutch in control.
However, Loughborough Students' Nick Catlin played a major role in the two second half strikes that secured England's critical 4-3 victory.
Jonty Clarke restored parity - although there were some anxious moments when his powerful cross was referred to the video umpire - and Alexander put England back ahead with just seven minutes remaining.
"Sometime's it's just about getting the win," said England assistant manager Bobby Crutchley.
"We were disappointed with the first half performance but credit to the players for picking themselves up. In the second half. They fought hard for the win.
"Nick upped his game in the second half and his contribution was rewarded."
The victory puts England up to fourth in the standings, ahead of New Zealand on goal difference.
Coupled with New Zealand's 4-4 draw with Spain earlier in the day, the result gives added importance to England's final pool match on Saturday, when they take on the Black Sticks.
A win over New Zealand will guarantee England a shot at the medals while a draw would leave them waiting on the outcome of the Netherlands' game against hosts Germany.
Working...
Comments
Post new comment