Ireland edge past Italy at EuroHockey Championship II
Ireland earned a hardfought 1-0 win over Italy to make it two wins from two in Pool A of the EuroHockey Championship II in Portugal on Tuesday.
Jeremy Duncan's goal in the second minute was enough to secure the victory for Ireland, who went three points clear at the top of the pool with one game to go.
Ireland began brightly, winning their first penalty corner after just two minutes. Lee Cole's effort was well saved, but Duncan was on hand to follow up and find the net.
Chances were few and far between for the remainder of the first half, with Italy sitting deep and crowding their circle to make things difficult for the Irish attackers. The tactic served them well, with Ireland unable to add to their one-goal lead before half-time.
Despite an energetic start and a number of early circle penetrations, efforts on goal remained elusive. Two late penalty corners proved the best chances for Ireland, the first of which was deflected wide, and the second initially resulting in a penalty stroke, which was eventually overturned.
The close scoreline set up a nervy final quarter for Ireland, with Italy winning a penalty corner that forced Jaime Carr into a good save. Italy continued to enjoy prolonged phases in the Irish half, but Ireland were alive to any efforts to manufacture a chance on goal.
In a last-ditch effort to salvage a draw, Italy substituted their keeper in favour of an additional outfield player with three minutes left. But Ireland held out to secure the points and extend their lead at the top of Pool A.
They'll play their third and final Pool A match against Portugal on Wednesday at 6pm Irish time. A draw would be enough to see Ireland secure top spot and a place in Friday's semi-finals.
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