Ireland women take another major step in Olympic hockey dream

Ireland women secured a place in the Olympic Games 2020 qualifiers as they booked a place in the final of the FIH Series Finals at Banbridge with a semi-final success over Czech Republic.
Ireland women acknowledge the crowd at Havelock Park, BanbridgeIreland women acknowledge the crowd at Havelock Park, Banbridge
Ireland women acknowledge the crowd at Havelock Park, Banbridge

The 4-0 win at Havelock Park ensures the Irish dream of competing in the Tokyo hosted Games is a step closer.

Shirley McCay and Zoe Wilson netted from penalty corner moves in the second quarter to set the hosts on their way to a comfortable win over the Czechs, who they had beaten 8-1 during the pool phase.

Sarah Hawshaw's close-range finish and an Anna O'Flanagan strike after a sublime attacking move from the Irish in the final minute sealed a place in the decider.

Ireland will face Korea or Malaysia in Sunday's final (3.30pm).