Ireland's hockey team underdogs have been down this road before 

Three years ago the Ireland women’s hockey team secured an early 3-1 win over the USA which provided the platform for a run to the World Cup final.

Three years ago the Ireland women’s hockey team secured an early 3-1 win over the USA which provided the platform for a run to the World Cup final. Zoe Wilson, Hannah Matthews, and Roisin Upton are pictured celebrating. (Photo by Christopher Lee/Getty Images)

The rules may differ but the tenets governing team sports remain universal. Play as a collective rather than as individuals. Be disciplined. Manage the occasion and the officials. Make full use of your possession and opportunities.

Much the same applies when it comes to major tournaments. If there is one unquestioned principle it’s the need to start fast and generate momentum that can carry you through the rest of the pool stages and maybe even deeper into the field.