Quins veterans consider future

Cork Harlequins’ Irish Senior Cup triumph last month could prove the swansong for a number of the side’s stalwarts after they saw their EuroHockey League dream go up in smoke.

Ireland’s drop from sixth to ninth in the EHL rankings sees them lose their second qualification berth, meaning Quins now instead head for the lesser-lauded EuroHockey Club Champions Trophy instead. Coach Phil Oakley yesterday spoke of the club’s disappointment, given the squad had already returned to training in preparation for the EHL in October, while efforts to secure sponsorship for the venture were also underway.

“It’s very disappointing for the club and players, especially the way it has happened and the timing,” he said.

Many Quins stalwarts, including captain Mark Black, had been set to put retirements on hold to play in the EHL, but it remains to be seen whether the news will affect their decision.

“I’m not sure as to whether it will affect retirements or not. The club have already won this tournament (the Trophy) in 2007, it was one of the reasons Ireland got two EHL places in the first place. We’re going to have to have a team meeting to discuss this,” said Oakley.

l Ireland’s U21s are off to a perfect start at the Junior Celtic Cup in Wrexham. Both sides won 2-0 against Wales with Munster girls Naomi Carroll and Olivia Roycroft netting for the women and Davy Carson and Shane O’Donoghue doing so for the men.