Improved Ireland beaten by Spain

The Irish Senior Women's Squad were beaten 2-1 by Spain today as the Green Army continued their preparations for the upcoming FIH World League 2 with a second game vs. their hosts in 24 hours following yesterday's 2-0 defeat.

Irish Coach, Darren Smith, made 9 changes to his starting XI today as he continued to get a good look at the full squad at his disposal. This included today the return of inspirational captain Alex Speers, Goalkeeper Emma Gray & Audrey O'Flynn.

Ireland, despite the loss played some excellent hockey again as Smith's side battled hard against another experienced Spanish side playing on home territory. As was the case yesterday, Spain took a 1-0 lead into half time having scored on a quick counter attacking play. Ireland had some excellent spells of possession and created chances of their own in the first period with Speers, McCarthy & Connery all going close.

Spain extended their lead early in the 2nd half with a powerful drag flick which was almost kept out by Emma Gray in the Ireland goal. The goal didn't deter the Green Army though and Ireland continued to search for the goal their play had deserved over the course of two games. The goal finally arrived late in the game following great play by UCD's Chloe Watkins down the right hand side who slipped the ball to Aine Connery of Corinthian to finish stylishly. Ireland almost grabbed an equaliser in the closing stages through Nikki Evans but Spain managed to hold on to claim the 2-1 victory.

Speaking after the game, Ireland Coach Darren Smith said 'This was an improved performance, with strong physicality and good pressing throughout. While it was disappointing to concede two soft goals, we created numerous goal opportunities ourselves but were wasteful with them. I am pleased with the progress we are making. The two sides round off the 3 game series on Monday lunchtime before facing each other again on 2nd March 2013 at World League 2