FIH Pro League: Ireland edge out England in shootout after Dublin draw

Ireland earned their first points in the FIH Pro League as they edged out England 4-3 in a dramatic shootout after a 1-1 draw in Dublin.

Sarah Torrans gave the home side a first-half lead before Ellie Rayer equalised for England in the third quarter.

In heavy rain at the Sport Ireland campus, both sides looked happy with a point at the end, but it was Ireland who held their nerve in the shootout with goalkeeper Lizzie Murphy making the final stop to give the hosts the second point.

Charlotte Beggs, Mikayla Power and Hannah McLoughlin (2) scored for Ireland in the shootout, while Darcy Bourne, Rayer and Lily Owsley converted for England.

“We’re delighted. We started the game with a lot of energy and that was exactly what we wanted to do,” said Torrans.

“Unfortunately we couldn’t hold them out for the win and but look it’s a number of steps forward for us so we’re happy right now.”