USA face New Zealand, Korea look to fend off the challenge of an in-form China, and England take on an improving Azerbaijan on Day 4 of the AtaHolding Champions Challenge in Baku.
USA V New Zealand
The Black Sticks will be hoping to bounce back from their 8:1 defeat at the hands of China, with the fitness of key player Lizzy IGASAN a major issue. IGASAN left the field of play injured with the score at 2:0 on Tuesday, and New Zealand never recovered, falling to their heaviest ever defeat in the Champions Challenge. USA started the tournament badly, but had a good win against China and deservedly secured a draw against England thanks to a 67th April FRONZONI strike. It promises to be an interesting encounter.
Korea V China
The big match of the day sees the top two go head-to-head. After three games, Korea still have a 100% record, but were put under more pressure than most people expected by Azerbaijan, eventually winning 4:3. China have so far been a team of extremes. A poor performance against the USA lead to defeat, but a brilliant display of attacking hockey saw them crush New Zealand on Day 3. If China play to their potential, this could be the best game of the Champions Challenge so far.
England V Azerbaijan
England were visibly disappointed after their drawn match against the USA on Day 3, but will be looking to get their Champions Challenge campaign back on track against Azerbaijan this evening. However, the host nation – steadily improving throughout the tournament – will feel that they can get their first points in this match. Their performance against Korea on Tuesday certainly impressed, and England will have to stay focussed if they are to overcome their opponents in front of what is expected to be another large crowd.
Results, league tables and match reports will be updated throughout the day on this site. You can watch Live Commentaries of all today’s matches by clicking on the “Launch Commentary” button on the homepage.
