Ireland’s Men and Women’s teams both fell to defeats in their opening 5 Nations Challenge matches, against the hosts and tournament favourites England.
Andrei Molnar’s Senior Men opened the tournament and fought hard with Libero Cillian O’Riordain marshalling the defence well. Youngster Lachlan Donnelly also impressed as did Opposite Patrick Cawley. England ran away with the first set, but some tactical tweaks and the introduction of Julian Njuguna in the 2nd had Ireland much more competitive, as captain Jerry Obiekwe came into his own.
A big and experienced England team kept Ireland at arms length running out winners 3:0 (10/18/20).
Mark Delahunty’s Women’s team were up next, with the match starting in a similar manner. England running into an early lead. But like in the Men’s match, Ireland fought back well and an Emily Frazell inspired 2nd set saw Ireland level terms after consecutive Aces from the UCD hitter, who ended the match as the game’s top points scorer. Gardians’ Emma Byrne was proving an effective opposite helped by fast ball from the impressive Libero Caitriona Ni Riordain and setter Regina Halpin.
The 3rd and 4th sets started tight before the hosts ran away to take the game 3:1 (13/25, 25/20, 16/25, 12/25).
Ireland are back on court tomorrow morning facing Scotland before Northern Ireland in the afternoon. All matches are available to watch live here.Â
Saturday Schedule
Ireland Men v Scotland, 09.50am SATURDAY
Ireland Women v Scotland, 11.50am SATURDAY
Ireland Men v Northern Ireland, 3.15pm SATURDAY
Ireland Women v Northern Ireland, 5.50pm SATURDAY
Men’s Bronze Medal Match, 10.20am SUNDAY
Men’s Gold Medal Match, 10.30am SUNDAY
Women’s Bronze Medal Match, 12.35pm SUNDAY
Women’s Gold Medal Match, 12.45pm SUNDAY
Â
