Hockey: Pro League returns for the Irish men’s side
Mark Tumilty’s squad will compete in three more tournament-style events next year, in India, the Netherlands, and Belgium. Pic: INPHO/Ryan Byrne
The Irish men's hockey team is gearing up for the start of the Pro League, set to begin next week in Argentina.
Mark Tumilty’s squad will compete in three more tournament-style events next year, in India, the Netherlands, and Belgium.
In Argentina they will face England and Argentina twice, from December 12 to 16, at the Santiago del Estero Hockey Club. Tumilty’s team will feature a blend of youth and experience, with uncapped players like Banbridge goalkeeper Luke Roleston, YMCA's Adam Walker, and Three Rock Rovers' Ben Pasley joining experienced players like cap centurions Darragh Walsh, Ben Walker, and Lee Cole. The team will be led by Kyle Marshall, who will captain the side in the absence of Sean Murray.
Domestically, Harlequins men are looking to bounce back after last week's defeat to Church of Ireland in the Peard Cup.
They will take on Bandon, who pose a strong threat with players like Colin Kingston, Fionn O’Leary, and Alastair Smith.
There's also a precursor to the Peard Cup final as Waterford host Church of Ireland at Newtown School. Church of Ireland are favourites for the three points, given Waterford’s winless record in the league so far this season.
In women’s EYHL 1, UCC will face Loreto in a top-versus-bottom clash at the Mardyke. Loreto, unbeaten this season, will be up against a UCC side eager to earn some points before the winter break.
Catholic Institute will face UCD in Limerick, hoping to keep pace with Loreto, while Railway Union aims to continue their strong form away to Old Alex.
In Munster Women’s Division 1, leaders Harlequins have a weekend off, giving Waterford the chance to close the gap at the top as they travel to Bandon, who are currently bottom of the league.
Third-placed Crescent will face fourth-placed Ashton, with both teams needing a win to close the gap on second-placed Waterford.
The final game of the weekend sees Church of Ireland take on Catholic Institute B at Rosbrien.
Bandon v Harlequins, 12 noon; Waterford v Church of Ireland, 2pm.
: Ashton v Crescent, 11am; Bandon v Waterford, 2pm; Catholic Institute B v Church of Ireland, 2.45pm.
Catholic Institute v UCD, 12.45pm; UCC v Loreto, 1pm; Pegasus v Ulster Elks, 12.45pm; Old Alex v Railway Union, 1.30pm; Pembroke Wanderers v Ards, 4.15pm.
