Bann lads help Ireland to first ever Euro semi spot

Banbridge lads Matthew Bell and Eugene Magee have helped Ireland into the semi-finals of the EuroHockey Championships.
Eugene Magee and Matthew Bell are helping to make history in London. INBL1423-231EBEugene Magee and Matthew Bell are helping to make history in London. INBL1423-231EB
Eugene Magee and Matthew Bell are helping to make history in London. INBL1423-231EB

An opening day 4-3 victory over France set the Ireland lads on their way before Tuesday’s 2-2 draw with Belgium sealed their spot in the last four.

Not even a 2-0 defeat to Germany could keep Ireland out of their first ever EuroHockey semi-finals as they knock out world number four side Belgium to progress along with Germany. The Netherlands are likely to join them, along with either hosts England or Spain.

The semis will take place on Thursday with the medal matches on Saturday.