Ireland 6, Russia 1
Host Ireland started its bid to go to the London Games in grand fashion with a 6-1 win against Russia.

Ireland came out nervous but settled in thanks to a pair of goals that come less than 30 seconds apart in the 14th minute. John Jermyn flick in a penalty corner and Timothy Cockram followed up for the 2-0 lead after getting the feed from Jermyn.

Ravshanzhon Zakirov helped the Russian regain their composure, putting in the 2-1 goal in the 25th minute after a scramble in front of the goal. The marker was the last of the half as Ireland took the slim one-.goal lead into the break.

Ten minutes into the second half Michael Darling gave Ireland the 3-1 lead after driving home the ball after the scrum in front of the goal. The lead extended further and gave Ireland some breathing room when Peter Caruth slapped in the 4-1 goal four minutes later. From there Ireland took control putting in another two goals to roll to the 6-1 win.

“We’re pleased that we were able to score six goals,” said Irish head coach Paul Revington. “It was a closer game than the final score indicated. We have some work to do before the upcoming games.”

The player of the game was Ireland's Ronan Gormley.

Note: Umpire Andrew Kennedy from England was honored in a pre-game ceremony for his 50^th cap.