Hockey: Ireland 5-2 Russia

Ireland's U21 Men got off to a flying start today in their first match of the Europeans beating Russia 5-2. Two first half goals gave Ireland a healthy start going into the break Johnnie McKee with an open play goal followed up by Nick Burns converting from the set piece.

Ireland extended their lead to 4-0 with two more goals in the 52nd minute from Neal Glassey and Peter Brown, Russia pulled one back in the 54th before Captain Nick Burns got his second and Ireland's 5th to make it 5-1. Russia got one further goal to make it 5-2 but Ireland will no doubt be happy with a strong start to the tournament. Ireland take on the Ukraine tomorrow at 5pm Irish time