Ireland left to lament ‘frustrating' failure to hit back at Spain as Pro League season ends with heavy loss
A late consolation goal for Ireland's Ben Nelson did give them something to cheer on an otherwise tough final outing in the FIH Pro League.
It was a far cry from the competitive clash between the same two nations the previous day where Spain had to come from behind to win 4-2.
Speaking after the game, Ireland captain Kyle Marshall said: 'It's definitely frustrating considering it's our last game (in the FIH Pro League 2024/25).
'We don't have a chance to put that one right, so to speak. We definitely showed that we can play in the second-half, but it's not where we want to be.'
Up next for Ireland is the EuroHockey Championship II in Portugal and Marshall said it will give the side an opportunity to improve.
'Luckily, we have something to aspire to,' he explained.
'We need a top-two finish in the EuroHockey Championship II.
'We could definitely put a bit of pressure on ourselves in the second-half today to do what we expect of ourselves, our basic standards and hold ourselves accountable.'
That event takes place in Lousada, Portugal with the tournament set to take place from July 27 to August 2.
Ireland will hope to retain their 2023 title and add a fourth to their tally to continue their record as the competition's most successful side.
A top-two finish in the competition would provide Ireland with a place at the FIH World Cup Qualifiers in 2026.
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