Kevin White at the Hockey Masters World Cup
Posted by Kevin White
A couple of weeks ago the ‘Masters’ World Cup for the Over 60’s reached its climax and saw Lindum’s Kevin White representing England, the current European Champions, in the final against the World Cup holders, the Netherlands
England had cruised through the group stages, scoring 21 goals and without conceding any. The knockout rounds followed a similar pattern, with the England forwards making their mark early against both Wales (3-0) in the quarter final and Germany (3-0) in the semi final. The performance against Germany was particularly pleasing as they completely dominated the match, scoring two goals before half time then added a third in the final quarter.
The final against the Netherlands was going to be a totally different matter. The Netherlands were technically the best team with several world class players. England were both fitter and quicker, with a defence that hadn’t conceded a goal all tournament.
The game didn’t disappoint, the Netherlands looked most dangerous in the first half and scored a goal before half time through captain Maarten van Rijn as his side capitalised following a turnover on the half way line.
As the game moved into the final quarter England’s fitness and speed came to the fore and was reflected in the penalty corner count which was 13 -2 in England’s favour. On three occasions England’s forwards were on the end of straightforward chances they had taken all tournament, but failed to take on this occasion as the Netherlands hung on to a 1-0 to win the gold medal.
A disappointing end to the tournament, but it was a joy to play in what has been recognised as the fittest and best prepared Over 60’s team that has represented England. The Real Club de Polo de Barcelona was a spectacular setting for the tournament, together with the weather – 30 degree temperatures nearly matched those back in the UK!.
The tournament scores and statistics can be found at:
https://masters.altiusrt.com/
Further match reports etc are on the England Hockey website:
http://www.englandhockey.co.uk/news.asp?section=787§ionTitle=Masters+Hockey+News
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