Build up begins in earnest for Irish team

HOCKEY: With only 74 days to go until the Irish senior men take on hosts Spain in the opening match of the European Nations Cup in Barcelona the side continue their build up and depart on Wednesday to compete in a quadrangular tournament in Vienna against Switzerland, Russia and Austria.

The first match will be against hosts Austria, who narrowly missed out on European qualification in Dublin after defeating Wales in the group stages. Both Russia and Switzerland, however, will compete at the European Championship.

Russia have been drawn in Ireland's group along with Germany, Spain, Belgium and France.

There have been no changes from the squad who lost the three match series to England at UCD last weekend, with Cookstown's Andrew Barbour retaining his place in the 18-man squad after impressing in the final match.

Following Chris Jackson passing the 50-cap milestone last weekend, defender Paddy Brown, who is on 47 caps, is likely to celebrate his 50th against Russia on Saturday in Vienna.

National coach John Clarke said the series represents another important stage in his preparations and offers the opportunity to play against sides like Austria, Russia and Switzerland, whom Ireland do not play often get a chance to play.

QUADRANGULAR TOURNAMENT: June 26 - Austria v Ireland, 4.00; June 27- Ireland v Switzerland, 4.45; June 28 - Ireland v Russia, 3.00