Olympic rejig boosts Irish hockey prospects in Rio

Ireland’s quest to medal in Rio has received a boost with a restructuring of the Olympic tournament.

Previously, the 12 competing countries were split into two pools of six, with only the top two from each advancing to the semi-finals and a chance of a medal.

However, the 2016 competition will include quarter-finals for the first time, meaning Ireland’s first aim this August will be a top four finish in their pool.