IRISH crews competing for Olympic places at Savannah continued to struggle in their respective fleets at the European qualification regatta at Murcia, Spain yesterday.

The leading hopefuls, Denise Lyttle and Louise Cole, slipped from their constant 11th to 14th place in the 470 women's group yesterday and must hold this position or better if Olympic team selection is to be realised.

Aishling Bowman was lying 16th, another drop of one place, but must finish 17th or better to attend Savannah. The remaining single hander, John Driscoll in the Finn, remains in 20th place, two positions short of the required standard. The final two races will be sailed today.