France 3 VS 3 Ireland (Men's Hockey) Match Report

The second match in the series marked a big milestone for Eugene Magee who earned his 200th cap for Ireland. Magee first took to the pitch for Ireland back in 2005 against Belgium and fast became a stalwart of the team. Congratulations to Eugene on a fantastic achievement.

After a frustrating loss in match 1 of the series, the green machine began match 2 with a blistering pace. They earned 3 penalty corners in the first 10 minutes, all of which the French defence dealt with. The green machine looked confident and composed as they created a further 3 chances in the opening quarter. 0-0

The second quarter began with another chance for the men in green which the French defence cleared, but only as far as a waiting green shirt. The Irish increased the pressure once more and earned another penalty corner. This time the green machine converted and took the lead 1-0 thanks to a superb strike from Shane O'Donoghue. France quickly responded and put together some fluid passes to take their first shot on goal of the contest. They enjoyed a period of possession and tested the Irish defence with another shot on goal, that was routinely saved by Harte. Harte was again called into action as the French side seemed to find their rhythm as the half ticked down. 1-0

France started the second half in the same manner in which they finished the first and quickly forced Harte to make 2 strong saves. The French side earned 3 penalty corners and drew the match level with a goal on their third attempt at the end of the period. 1-1

5 minutes into the final quarter Harte made a terrific save but couldn't prevent a goal a minute later. 2-1 to France. Another penalty corner for France led to their third goal with just 5 minutes left in the game. 3-1. The green machine responded immediately with a goal of their own less than a minute later thanks to Kyle Good, 3-2. 2 minutes later, Kyle Good struck again with a blistering shot and brought the match to 3-3, and that's how the tie finished up.

Speaking after the match, Coach Craig Fulton said "A fantastic milestone was achieved today with Eugene Magee receiving his 200th cap. There was a much improved performance from yesterday. The team played some good phases and we will be looking to build on this in our final preparations for World League 3".
Final score 3-3 (O'Donoghue, Good x2)