Ireland men face bronze medal clash after loss to Spain

Spain 2-0 Ireland

Two goals in the third quarter saw Spain get the better of Ireland in Friday's men's hockey Olympic qualifier in Valencia, with the Irish now relying on winning the bronze medal match in order to book their ticket to Paris.

From their second penalty corner, Spain's first effort on goal was brilliantly tapped onto the post by Lee Cole, but Rafael Vilallonga reacted quickest to prod home.

Having upped the ante in the third quarter, the Spanish lead was deserved.

The advantage was doubled three minutes later. Another penalty corner. Irish goalkeeper Davey Harte got down smartly, but there was too much power from captain Marc Miralles' shot.

More to follow

Ireland 0-2 Spain - Time is running out for Ireland and two fine saves from Luis Calzoda ensure that Spain continue to hold a two-goal lead.