Hockey: Ireland have 'something to build on' after World Cup opener despite defeat to Australia

Mark Tumilty’s side grew into the game in Belgium.

Ireland’s Lee Cole battles for the ball against Australia. Pic: INPHO/Will Palmer

This was a Men’s World Cup pool opener which showed Ireland’s lack of consistent Test match experience as Australia ran out 3-1 winners in the Belgian city of Wavre.

Having been relegated from the FIH Pro League, a portion of Mark Tumilty’s squad hadn’t played a meaningful set of matches since the World Cup qualifiers in March.