Canada versus Ireland – First Half Analysis
Ireland showed some good hockey against Canada in the second Test of the three-match series played in Edinburgh, Scotland. However, the two teams lacked the cutting edge in front of goal as the first half concluded with a 0-0 score.
It was an outstanding start for Canada, but they failed to dominate in the early minutes. Ken Pereira and Rob Short, who were playing 318th match of their professional career, linked up well down the right-hand side in the starting minutes, but
could not create a clear chance. A short ceremony was also organised in honour of Pereira and Short, who exceeded the highest cap record of Bubli Chohan.
The second game opened in the same way as the first match. However, the Irish squad comprised of some new faces. Many of its players have gone back to fulfil their respective club’s responsibilities. It was the game where the ball mostly remained in the
midfield position.
Canada continued to edge Ireland with a nip-and-tuck from the start of the game, which would undoubtedly pleased Robin D'Abreo.
With six minutes into the first half of play, Canada was able to earn its first penalty-corner of the game. A strong drag-flicking hit was deflected by the custodian of the Irish side.
The two teams executed some powerful attack into either circle, but neither side could score a goal in the opening period. The Irish squad obtained their first short-corner of the half in the 18th minute and tested Dave Carter, but to no avail.
Jesse Watson, who was placed at a safe position, nicely intercepted the ball and directed it out of field.
As the game passed progressed, the Canadian team adopted a more offensive build-up and started to take the ball under their sticks. They accomplished a number of strikes, but the Irish defenders were up to the task and kept them far away to mount any serious
menace.
Ken Pereira managed to earn another penalty-corner for Canada in the 26thminute. He made a successful hit into the circle of the Ireland team. However, it could not bear much fruits for them. The Canadian player failed to stop the ball impressively
and missed a lucky chance to score a goal.
An end-to-end play was observed in the remaining time period and both teams went into the second half of play at 0-0.
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