Strong finish keep Ireland’s series hopes alive

JOE DOOLEY believes Ireland will carry vital momentum into the hurling/shinty series decider following Saturday's storming first Test at Croke Park.

Dooley's team, which is seeking to retain the title, trailed by six points midway through the second-half and looked in trouble, before a strong finish rescued pride and what might have been an incredible victory.

Ireland can still be satisfied though, as they took on more of the compromise than their shinty counterparts; they weren't permitted to take the ball in hand, a lighter shinty style ball was used and the visitors received double scores for free conversions.