THE Irish men’s hockey team today stand on the brink of attaining their goal at the European Nations Hockey Championships, but dodgy floodlights at the Tre Fontane Stadium in Rome may frustrate their ambitions.

THERE was widespread disappointment last night at the announcement that John Clarke has resigned as Ireland’s senior men’s hockey coach.

THE Irish men’s hockey team will have to quickly overcome their disappointment of failing to beat Belgium on Monday and missing out on a top eight finish in the European Championships, or they could lose further momentum.

The Irish men’s hockey team begin their European Championship campaign in Barcelona on Monday against Spain in a game that could shape their ultimate destiny in the competition.