Ireland lose to Belgium but retain Olympic ambition

Ireland lost 4-2 to Belgium but can still qualify with a positive draw against Japan on Tuesday.

With Olympic qualification progression resting on their final group game, Ireland men’s coach Mark Tumilty had called this clash against the Olympic champions as a “free shot”. And while Belgium’s expansive game and explosive hitting set up a 4-2 win, Ireland put up a thoroughly spirited showing against the Red Panthers last night.

Defeat, but laced with a healthy goal difference, means that a draw against Japan tomorrow night will secure progression to the last four. They will, though, head into that crucial match with a game that can test the best, Mark Tumilty's side aiming to atone for mistakes which led to a madcap period of four goals in seven entertaining minutes.