Ireland miss out on third in Rome

Hockey: Ireland failed to build on yesterday's morale boosting 2-1 victory of hosts Italy, when they drew a blank against Azerbaijan…

Hockey: Ireland failed to build on yesterday's morale boosting 2-1 victory of hosts Italy, when they drew a blank against Azerbaijan in their final World Cup qualifying Pool B match today.

A win would have left Ireland third in the pool and almost certain of a less difficult first cross-over match against France tomorrow.

Instead the scoreless draw means that if, as expected, New Zealand beat Italy tonight, Ireland will meet world number five China at midday tomorrow.