Ireland 5, Mexico 0

Ireland had a tougher time than expected earning its third win at the Athlon Car Lease FIH Road to London Tournament against #30 Mexico, but in the end kept its undefeated record in place with a 5-0 victory.

Things weren’t pretty in the first half as Ireland had a sluggish start and, despite controlling nearly every aspect of the game, could not find the key to unlocking the Mexican goal.

The goals started flowing only after 10 minutes in the second half when Audrey O’Flynn flicked in a short corner for the all-important 1-0 goal. Oddly enough, about five minutes after the goal, Mexico pulled goalkeeper Ahidee Castillo in favor of Selma del la Flores despite the strong performance Castillo had turned in.

Shortly after, Ireland opened the flood gates with Emma Smyth scoring on a reverse for the 2-0 marker. The Irish pour in another three goals in the last five minutes of action – all coming as a result of short corners, brining the final to 5-0, a respectable, but not overwhelming, result for the Irish.

Ireland will need to step it up in its next match as it takes on top-seeded Spain, ranked #11 in the FIH World Ranking on Thursday. That game will have major implications for Sunday’s final as the winner will be in pole position at the tournament.