Craig Fulton: Ireland Olympic hockey team must be patient against Germany

“Tough and physical.” The exact same words German goalkeeper Nicolas Jacobi and both Dutch players Rob van der Horst and Mirco Pruijser used to describe the Ireland’s men’s hockey team in Rio.

While Craig Fulton’s charges would argue there is more artistry to their style of play, the comments give a clear idea of how his side are viewed by the elite of the sport.

The dynamism shown by Kirk Shimmins, Shane O’Donoghue and John Jermyn shows an ability to attack at speed.