HOCKEY: Ireland crowned European Champions

Katie Mullan was first on the score sheet as she fired the ball home from close range in the 8th minute. The game was filled with a plethora of chances for Ireland but the second goal didn’t come until the 32nd minute when Megan Frazer expertly converted a penalty stroke. The third goal came courtesy of a darting run by Watkins and a precision perfect pass to the waiting Brown.

Carroll, the second highest goal scorer in the tournament with 5 to her name, made it 4-0 in the 43rd minute as she sidestepped 2 defenders and calmly slotted the ball under the already-committed goalkeeper. The chances didn’t ease with Mullan, Daly, Pinder and Brown all shooting wide in the second half. Beatty created the final goal with a shot that deflected into the goal off a Czech defender.

The Green Army were crowned deserved champions and Megan Frazer, the squad’s talented captain, earned the prize of tournament MVP.

Today also marked a significant achievement for Shirley McCay who, in earning her 209th cap, became the most capped woman in Irish hockey history. The ever-humble McCay said “To become the most capped female Irish player is an achievement I am extremely proud of. Female athletes are gaining more recognition than ever before and I am delighted to be able to create history today.

Playing for Ireland has always been a gratifying and humbling experience for me and cap 209 was no different. I’m thrilled we could mark it with a win! We have shown immense character and mental resilience to do what we came to achieve and regain our A division status”.

Despite the huge personal achievement for McCay she was quick to pay gratitude to those around her “I am lucky to be surrounded by a group of incredibly talented players and a backroom staff to match, so a huge thank you must go to them for making these opportunities a reality”.

Speaking about the achievement of his most capped player, coach Graham Shaw said “To play 209 times and become the highest capped female player for your country is a testament to her hard work, commitment and dedication. Shirley is a great team player and a fantastic person so we are thrilled for her as she thoroughly deserves this honour”.

Team: McFerran, Brown, Mullan, McCay, Frazer (C), Carroll, Pinder, Watkins, Daly, Matthews, Sargent

Subs: Davis, O’Byrne, Lloyd, Duke, McDonald, Meeke, Beatty.