Ireland Off to a Low Key Start in Lisnagarvey

Ireland got their Celtic Cup campaign off to a low-key start as Scotland claimed the opening game of the competition with a rugged 2-1 win in Lisnagarvey.

Alison Bell’s deflected shot in the 49th minute set them on their way and Ailsa Wylie’s penalty corner goal clinched the tie with 14 minutes to go.

Chloe Watkins did make for a lively finish when she volleyed home from close range after the superb Aine Connery set her up with a mazy run and shot with nine minutes left.

The first half saw both sides create plenty of chances with Amy Gibson worked by Alex Speers and Anna O’Flanagan. Speers, the Irish skipper, also saw her effort from Nikki Symmons pass incredibly taken off the line by a scrambling Aileen Davis.

Four Irish corners could not produce a go-ahead goal though Audrey O’Flynn went within inches of breaking the deadlock. As did Connery, the star Irish performer, with an upright reverse in a golden period just after the break.

But Scotland’s goal built their confidence and they played the closing quarter with confidence. A win on Saturday over Wales will see them retain the title while Ireland’s only hope is if the Welsh beat the Scots, keeping Sunday’s game live.

In the men’s competition, Scotland netted three times in the second half to run out 3-0 winners over Wales, joining Ireland at the head of the four-team group.