Ireland face prospect of relegation after defeat to France

Ireland's Junior Green Army conceded a late goal to France to put them in serious danger of relegation from the European Under-21 Championships with a potential knock-on effect for the 2020 Junior World Cup.

Yohanna Lhopital swept home with two minutes to go at a rain-drenched Valencia, one that looked to have come off a French foot in the build-up.

Ireland had more of the game but found chances scarce on a slow surface. Abbie Russell’s close range effort was smothered by Mathile Petriaux while Sorcha Clarke’s shot hit the side-netting from a narrow angle.

Two penalty corners also went incomplete before France struck on the counter for their goal.

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It leaves Ireland destined for the relegation pool where they will need to beat higher ranked opposition, a tough ask.

"You don't know what else will happen," coach Dave Passmore said. "We obviously didn't want to lose the game but we are still in it. The girls are a really strong, tight group and they will pull themselves together."

They play Germany on Thursday at 8am (Irish time); the Irish men are in action on Wednesday against Austria at 8am.

EuroHockey Junior Championships – Women – Pool B: Ireland 0 France 1 (Y Lhopital) Men – Wednesday (Irish time): Ireland v Austria, 8am