28th June 2010
Wales v British Asians Hockey Association (BAHA)
U18 Boys
BAHA started brightly and caught the Welsh team by surprise with their pace and ball retention but it was Mark Brothers leading as the captain who scored first for Wales. This inspired BAHA to take more control of the game and dominate all over the pitch except in the Wales 23m where the defence marshalled by Paddy McDowell and Will Davies stood firm and resolute. The goalkeepers although rarely called into action were alert and alive to all that BAHA threw against them and commanded the circle well.
After the first period the vociferous BAHA coaching staff was rewarded by the players with a well worked and taken open play goal which seemed to throw the Welsh player off balance and their concentration was interrupted by this set back. However the Wales coaching staff soon had the concentration levels restored and Wales gradually forced errors into the BAHA team and several chances were created by the forwards but it was not until a penalty corner was awarded that the lead was restored with a well worked move around the top of the circle to present Rhys Davies with a shot on target.
BAHA tried hard in the last few minutes but were unable to breach the defence set up by the Wales coaching staff and players. In summary a well umpired game, with BAHA enjoying long periods of possession throughout the game without real penetration and Wales playing counter attacking hockey. It was the practised routines of the Wales team that just edged the score line in their favour. Thanks to both umpires Ian Tibbitt and Marcus Powell for their handling of an open and enjoyable game at the WIS.
U16 Boys
After an intense training day on the Saturday, the U16 Boys took to the field against their British Asian opposition on the Sunday. A reverse stick shot into the bottom corner by Toby Roper from a penalty corner breakdown gave Wales the lead. Two second half goals from Matt Philips gave Wales 2-0 lead and then restored the 2 goal advantage after the British Asians had pulled one back. The U16's conceded a late goal to finish 3-2 winners in a well contested match. Most pleasing for Coach Chris Roberts was that all squad members, including the younger players who are with the squad for development, played in the match and gained valuable experience of playing in an 'international' competitive environment.
'British Asian Hockey Association's (BAHA) inaugural matches at U18 and U16 levels against the Welsh Hockey Union resulted in 2 very exciting, end-to-end and close encounters. For me the day was very absorbing and enjoyable, and we were delighted with the welcome and hospitality we received from Helen, Nazir and other WHU team managers and coaches. I hope this is the start of a mutually beneficial and lasting relationship between the two associations and that these types of matches provide inspiration to our youngsters to keep playing hockey and achieve the best they can.
I would like to thank Mike who readily agreed to host these matches and for having the vision to relate to BAHA's objectives and aspirations. We're very much looking forward to regular fixtures at different age levels to keep the momentum going.'
Manjit Flora, Chairman British Asian Hockey Association
'Welsh Hockey was delighted to welcome BAHA to the National Hockey Centre for what proved to be an exciting and competitive day of Hockey. We look forward to continuing our positive relationship and working together for the mutual benefit of Hockey now and in the future.’
Helen Bushell, CEO Welsh Hockey Union
