Ireland started their first match in the Celtic Cup on Saturday (4th June) looking strong, creating many chances from the get-go and from a tally of four penalty corners scored two to give them a 2-0 lead at half time. Goals came from Michelle Harvey's drag flick and Sargeants unstoppable direct shot.

Ireland came out in the second half ready to continue the fight, looking determined and creating many chances. It was Harvey who got her name on the scoresheet once again converting another drag flick on the ten minutes mark. Speers also shined as she made her debut as captain when she took control of a hard pass, picked her point and flicked her shot high into the net to copper fasten Ireland's victory.

Commenting after the game Coach Muller was pleased "We played well today creating many chances and scoring four penalty corners. We can improve on rhythm and flow as the match was a typical first match of a tournament which some nervy patches. We hope to improve on this for tomorrow's match against Scotland."

Ireland 5 (2)  Michelle Harvey 10m & 45m; Cliodhna Sargeant 25m, Alex Speers 48m
Wales 0 (0)

Ireland Squad - Celtic Cup 2011
1.Hannah Bowe (Slough)
2.Emma Clarke (Leicester)
3.Lizzie Colvin   (HGC)
4.Aine Connery (Hermes)
5.Miriam Crowley (UCC)
6.Emma Gray (Hermes)
7.Michelle Harvey (Pegasus)
8.Lisa Jacob (Hermes)
9.Sinead McCarthy (Hermes)
10.Shirley McCay (Old Alex)
11.Jean McDonnell (Railway Union)
12.Audrey O’Flynn (Hermes)
13.Julia O’Halloran (Railway Union)
14.Cliodhna Sargent (Cork Harlequins)
15.Pamela Smithwick (Old Alex)
16.Emma Smyth (Railway Union)
17.Alex Speers (Cpt  -  Railway Union)
18.Chloe Watkins (UCD)

Source: Irish Hockey