EuroHockey Championships: Ireland secure promotion with Scotland win
Ireland defeated Scotland 3-1 in their EuroHockey Championship II semi-final to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.The win also books their place in Saturday's final against Wales, and promotion to the EuroHockey Championships in 2027.Holders Ireland took an early lead in Portugal as Lee Cole scored with a dragflick on his 149th international appearance.Louis Rowe scored at the second attempt after his penalty corner was blocked by the Scottish defence, and Adam McAllister's effort was defected into the net to extend Ireland's lead.Scotland netted a consolation through Robert Field, who scored in the final minute. "The goals this week were to get back to the EuroHockey Championships and make the World Cup Qualifiers," said head coach Mark Tumilty.Now we have one more since we have made the final; to go out and win it.""We haven't played in the top division since 2019. Most of the current players have never played at that level. "First we work towards the World Cup Qualifiers next year. We have a lot of work to do ahead of those qualifiers."
