Catholic Institute to the fore as Ireland women's side boost Olympic hopes

THE Ireland women's hockey team took a major step towards qualification for next summer Olympic Games in Paris after securing a precious 3-1 qualifier victory over South Korea in Valencia, Spain on Tuesday evening.

The victory saw Ireland secure a second-placed finish in their group and with it a place in the semi-finals of the Olympic qualifiers. 

To get to this summer's Games, the Green Army either need to reach the final at the mini-tournament in Spain or finish third. 

Limerick woman Roisin Upton netted Ireland's third goal in the 55th minute when converting from a penalty corner. 

Upton's Catholic Institute team mate Naomi Carroll, from Cratloe, also played a key role in the success.

Another Catholic Institute member, Christine O'Shea, is Team Manager with the Ireland Senior Women's side. 

Ireland will meet Pool B winners Spain on Thursday at 3.30pm (2.30pm Irish time) for a place in the final, while Belgium and Great Britain will meet in the other last-four match.

IRELAND: Ayeisha Mc Ferren, Róisín Upton, Hannah McLoughlin, Ellen Curran, Beth Harper,  Katie McKee, Sarah Hawkshaw, Katie Mullan (C ), Charlotte Beggs, Naomi Carroll, Niamh Carey. SUBS USED: Sarah McAuley (5 mins), Michelle Carey (6 mins), Sarah Torrans (6 mins), Elena Neill (5 mins), Chloe Watkins (6 mins), Deirdre Duke (5 mins), Liz Murphy (GK) (not used)