Ireland men maul Malaysia to move win away from historic Hockey World Cup finish

A view of the Ireland team during the national anthem. Pic: ©INPHO/Will Palmer

Ireland men are one win away from confirming their best showing at a Men’s World Cup after summoning resolve and lashings of circle firepower to cast aside Malaysia 7-4 on Friday in Wavre.

Johnny Lynch, with only seven previous goals, netted a first-half hat-trick in 16 minutes as a madcap match ended with Ireland equalling their 12th place finishes at the 1978 and 1990 World Cups.

Returning to the Belfius Hockey Arena less than 24 hours after their agonising defeat to Spain, Ireland put on an energetic show full of running and clinical one-touch passing.

“It feels amazing, we put everything out on the pitch [against Spain],” said Lynch. “We all had one goal but it was impressive to see the team bounce back.”

Lynch struck his hat-trick with a tight reverse, angled stick and tap-in finishes. He was aided by Matthew Nelson, who also netted a brace.

Nelson's second goal garnered the best of the match. It came during a spell of four goals in six minutes when a three-way interchange of one-touch passes was finished with Nelson's tip-in.

Malaysia continued to rally with Jaime Carr, on his 100th cap, pulling off a huge stick save to his right and stave off a 4-2 scoreline.

Johnny McKee also netted while a free-flowing encounter, which saw 38 shots on goal, barely left fifth gear in the final quarter. Walker scored a seventh from a clinical forehand.

Lynch added: “Malaysia are physical and like to counter. There are a few things we need to tighten up, but overall I am proud of the guys.”

Ireland next play France on Saturday afternoon. Win that and the Green Machine will set up the chance to finish ninth next Friday.

Meanwhile, Ireland women begin their same quest on Saturday with a first classification game against Scotland (10:30am).