Hockey: Low-power league no issue, says coach

New Zealand men's coach Shane McLeod yesterday described this year's under-strength National Hockey League as "not a bad thing as a one-off" but looks forward to next year's tournament when all the top players should be in action.

"This year is a bit special given the number of players who are involved with the Commonwealth Games or are playing in Europe," said McLeod.

"And while this has given the opportunity for a number of other players to play at this level, next year, providing the timing is right, it will be compulsory for all players who want to go to the 2012 Olympics to play the NHL."

McLeod has been able to monitor the progress of players the national body has been aware of through the Tiger Turf and other programmes.

"Some have shone but really I haven't seen any players we were not aware of. Post Commonwealth Games we will be naming our next squads and I have spoken to some players who I feel will benefit from a critique of their games."

McLeod, who leaves with the Black Sticks for Malaysia tomorrow for three games en route to New Delhi, said his major concerns were in the paucity of "out-and-out strikers and goalkeepers". He had been impressed with what he had seen defensively.

"When you consider we have named five forwards in our Commonwealth Games team we are not too badly off at the highest level. It is finding the younger players coming through that is a concern."

McLeod is picking unbeaten Auckland to meet Midlands in the final.

"I'm picking Midlands to beat North Harbour in the semifinals if they can dominate in midfield," said McLeod.

"In the other semi I think Auckland should get home in what promises to be a close game with Capital."

Auckland, North Harbour and Midlands will also play in the women's semifinals with top qualifier Canterbury to play North Harbour while Midlands will meet Auckland.

HL Semifinals

North Harbour Hockey Stadium

Today

Men

* Midlands v North Harbour 9.30am; Auckland v Capital 1.30pm

Women

* Canterbury v North Harbour 11.30am; Midlands v Auckland 3.30pm