Irish duo sit out training ahead of first Rules test

Meath defender Kevin Reilly and Darren Hughes from Monaghan sat out Ireland training today for the International Rules Series, but both are expected to be fit for the first test.

The first test takes place at the Etihad stadium Melbourne at 9.45am on Friday morning.

In the last series in Ireland, the home side were criticised for their kicking at goal and former team manager Colm O'Rourke explained why we have been inaccurate in front of the posts despite using the round ball.

O'Rourke said: "We are talking about the elite players really. It is strange that they seem to be able to kick points when playing with their clubs or counties and they are not able to kick them in the International Rules games.

"Maybe some of the players who are getting the ball at the end of moves are the players that shouldn't be getting them. It is not always the forwards.

"The game is so mobile and fluid that a lot of players find themselves in positions kicking in the International Rules games for scores who would not be seen as scorers with their counties."