Planet Field Hockey

Czech R. outplays Austria. Italy already in the final, without conceding a goal!!!

Day two was opened with a match in pool B Czech R. vs Austria. Czech team took an early lead in the second minute, from their first penalty corner. Austria couldn?t recover from that shock and Czechs were the dominated side. In the 19th minute they increased their lead with an attractive goal from Bodnar. Five minutes later they scored again from a PC, but the goal was disallowed with an unclear reason. Austrians then recovered and started to attack. They won four PC, but they weren?t a real danger to Czech keeper Busek. Second half started with another Czech goal scored by Jaros. Austria finally put their PC routine in order in the 49th minute, nice hit by C. Minar. However it was too late to change things. Czechs played well again and Prochazka set the final score 4:1 in the 66th minute with a PC flick. Tomorrow Czech R. plays against France for the first place in pool B.

Match two was an opening match for the host side Croatia against Italy. This time stands were almost full with the local supporters, anticipating a good match. Italians were absolute favourites of the match, and they proved that on the pitch very soon, applying full pressure on Croatian defence. Italy scored from a PC flick in the 8th minute, but then Croats starting waking up. But they missed two big chances, one of them was a tip in that went just inches over the crossbar. And then came the fatal 33rd minute. PC corner was awarded for Italy outside the circle. After the push out there was misunderstanding between Italian players, but somehow a shot followed, which was saved, but lousy rebound went in after all. Just a few seconds later Italy scored again when Lanzano pushed the ball in between three Croatian defenders. And 3:0 for Italy was the score at the halftime. Croats played much better in the second half, forcing Italy to some panic at the back, but yet failed to score. Several chances from penalty corners went too wide. Italy also had some chances, but no goals either. With this second victory in two days Italy secured the Sunday final. Tomorrow they will have a rest day while Croatia will face young Swiss team for the second place.


DAY 2
Results:

Pool B:
Czech R. ? Austria 4:1 (2:0) Lahoda, Bodnar, Jaros & Prochazka for CZE; C.Minar for AUT

Pool A:
Croatia ? Italy 0:3 (0:3) Cirilli, Cirina & Lanzano

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