Thursday, December 5, 2024

EuroHockey Championships 2019: Team ratings, who’s a title contender?

The Pool stages over, The Hockey Paper ranks the men’s and women’s teams ahead of the Championship and Relegation matches

MEN

Holland
Authoritative in seeing off Ireland, clinical in heavyweight win over Germany and yet to hit top strides. 6/10

Belgium
So far untested, but so far as impressive – at times unstoppable – as world champions can be, as a nation expects. 8/10

Germany
Not quite the force of old, but quietly showing some solid form as tournament specialists. Dangerous. 7/10

Spain
Recovered from heavy result against Belgium to deserve their place in semis with streetwise style – as part-timers. 7/10

England
Shocked by opening Welsh draw, recovered to show mettle against Belgium but not good enough against Spain. 3/10

Scotland
Hammered in opener, stormed back superbly to almost defeat Ireland, lack of contact time contributed to final defeat. Potential looms. 4/10

Ireland
Disappointing Pool campaign. Not nearly the level they have attained in rankings rise – and they look distracted here. 3/10

Wales
Full of heart, won plenty of fans with England performance – as part-timers too – and left all on the line against Belgium. 6/10

WOMEN

England
Good value for their win against the Irish, stilted otherwise, but their tournament will hope to start in last four. 5/10

Germany
Still to find commanding rhythm, slightly brittle in midfield, but entering business end as dangerous candidates for glory. 6/10

Holland
Surprised with two opening draws, still not clear what form they are in – despite goal-fest over Russia. 6/10

Belgium
Fine opening result against the Dutch, but in an ever-so-tight Pool couldn’t find resolve to beat Spain with final flourish. 6/10

Spain
Assured, players know their role, quick on the counter, tight in defence and another run continues in major championship against funding drain. 8/10

Ireland
Slowly finding their (attacking) feet under new coach, costly defeat to England, but signs look increasingly good. 5/10

Belarus
Found life heavy going during first two losses, but credit for huge turnaround against England. If only they were fitter. 4/10

Russia
Competitive against Spain and Belgium, overwhelmed by the Dutch. 3/10

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