Thursday, February 13, 2025

Sultan of Johor Hockey Cup: GB rally to beat Australia

Great Britain came from two goals down to beat rivals Australia and claim the Sultan of Johor Cup 2024 title in Malaysia on Saturday.

GB’s under-21 squad, coached by Jon Bleby, rallied from 2-0 down to win their third title in five SOJC editions.

Daykin Stanger and Dylan Downey had scored two in three minutes in the opening quarter.

But GB immediately responded when Wimbledon’s Kaden Draysey, 17, notched his sixth goal of the tournament from the set piece in the 14th minute.

Alex Chihota levelled in the third quarter before Rory Penrose slung low in the 50th minute, a strike which proved to be the winner in an otherwise excellent performance from the GB unit.

GB won three matches from five group games to seal final place

“The players played a really strong game and fully deserved to win,” said Bleby. “We had a slow first 10 minutes going 0-2 but from then on we really pressured Australia, forcing them into many unforced errors and dominated for long periods.

“It was a really exciting game and fantastic effort from the players to win the Sultan of Johor Cup.”

Chihota, of Loughborough University, was awarded player of the tournament, while university team-mate Penrose was player of the final.

Australia had topped the group stages on goal difference from GB as both sides reached the final.

India won bronze after beating New Zealand in a shoot-out.

India’s goalkeeper Bikramjit Singh held his nerve to make three excellent saves to hold the Kiwis at bay.

Hockey Factory Shop

spot_img

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

More from Author

‘Voice of hockey’ leads media recognition at Hockey Writers’ awards

‘Voice of Hockey’ Nick Irvine was awarded the prestigious Graham Wilson...

Remember the names! Juniors recognised at Hockey Writers’ Club awards

Four new rising talents of the game were recognised as winners...

Lee Morton and Sophie Hamilton win Hockey Writers’ Club players of the year

Lee Morton and Sophie Hamilton were awarded men’s and women’s players...

FIH Indoor Hockey World Cup: Poland women create history

Poland women, who had never previously reached the podium, beat European...

- A word from our sponsors -

spot_img