Hockey: Ireland 1-2 Spain

Ireland played Spain in their 2nd match of the Electric Ireland Series at UCD narrowly losing out 2-1 in a game where the Green Army dominated possession and chances in a fantastic display of hockey.
(Photo credit: Adrian Boehm)

Ireland dominated the first half of the match with open play chances and two penalty corner routines but there was no return for their efforts. Spain defended well batting down in the circle and some pacy running by their number 1 defender thwarting Audrey O'Flynn's drag flick attempts to ensure the match was deadlocked at 0-0 at the break.

Ireland started strongly in the second half coming out with speed and strength applying pressure from the off, led by Captain Megan Frazer whose shot just flew wide. Ireland had a great penalty corner chance in the 39th minute but Cliodhna Sargent's sweep was deflected over the bar by Ali Meeke.

Spain had a fine chance minutes later when Gomez set up for a reverse but Emma Gray in goal saved well. Spain secured their first penalty corner of the match in the 50th minute but Riera's drag flick was well saved by Emma Gray in goals and Cliodhna Sargent on the line for Ireland.

Spain broke the deadlock in the 52nd minute with a classy goal from Perez who broke from halfway to smash home to make it Ireland 0 Spain 1. Ten minutes later Spain doubled their lead Bonastre this time with the honours with an outstanding reverse stick shot rocketing into the top of the net to go two ahead.

Ireland a minute later had a chance to pull one back as they lined up for another PC but Audrey O'Flynn's drag was deflected wide by the Spanish defence. Ireland finally secured a much deserved goal Gillian Pinder driving into the circle thumping home to make it 1-2 with just three left on the clock. Ireland ramped up looking for the equaliser but no joy and Spain closed out with a narrow 2-1 win over hosts Ireland.

Series 2 of this Electric Ireland starts tomorrow again with Spain and France at 4pm followed by Ireland and France on Sunday at 4pm in UCD.

Starting XI: Stella David (GK); Cliodhna Sargent; Emma Smyth; Megan Frazer; Naomi Carroll; Aine Connery; Audrey O'Flynn; Nicci Daly; Anna O'Flanagan; Kate Dillon; Alison Meeke
Reserves: Emma Gray GK; Chloe Brown; Hannah Matthews; Katie Mullan; Gillian Pinder; Emily Beatty, Deidre Duke.