Ireland's plans for Chile grounded

UNLIKE THE Irish hockey squad the schedule for the World Cup Qualifier in Chile, due to start next Saturday, is up in the air after yesterday’s flight out of Dublin was cancelled due to the disruption caused by the volcano in Iceland.

Scotland, who Ireland are due to play in the opening game of the tournament, have also had their travel plans delayed, as have Malaysia who were to leave from Europe for Santiago.

Only the hosts and Australia have suffered no interruptions to their build-up.

As with all stranded passengers at the moment it’s a case of wait and see, but it could be Friday – if even then – before Ireland can leave for Chile.

In such an event it seems highly unlikely that the International Hockey Federation would expect Gene Muller’s team to play their first game the day after they arrive.

The squad, which attended the launch of its new Samurai-sponsored kit at Belfield on Saturday, will continue to train in Dublin until the all-clear is finally given for their trip.

Meanwhile on the club front, Bray retained their Leinster Division One status on Saturday by beating Three Rock in their relegation/promotion play-off, Wendy Adams scoring twice in extra-time to seal a 3-2 victory.

In Munster, UCC completed their campaign with a 2-1 win away to Catholic Institute, a result that keeps them top of the table, two points clear of Cork Harlequins.

Harlequins, 7-0 winners over the University of Limerick, can retain their title, though, if they beat Institute in their final game next weekend.