Hockey: Ireland begin Olympic qualification campaign with a draw

This point, which must be looked at as a bonus at this stage, is an excellent start and must be followed up strongly by a win on Monday morning against Ukraine. 

Ireland’s Roisin Upton at full-time. Pic: Frank Uijlenbroek, Inpho

Ireland began their Olympic qualification Pool A campaign with a defiant performance against the European Silver medallists from 2023, Belgium.

Charlotte Engelbert forced a penalty corner after only 20 seconds. It was the first of nine such corners awarded against Ireland in the first half.