Clubs facing forfeits as they express concerns over travel

RATHGAR and Cork Harlequins run the risk of forfeiting their place in the men’s Irish Senior Cup as both clubs refuse to travel due to Covid-19 concerns. The potential for other clubs to follow suit seems likely.

Gar were due to play Instonians in Belfast while Quins were drawn to face Railway Union in Sandymount on Saturday but both informed Hockey Ireland of their concerns regarding travelling in the current climate.

Similarly, both Cork C of I’s men’s and women’s teams are due in Dublin to play Portrane and Corinthian but club management has reservations about the trip.

Both had initially requested postponements but, with the Senior Cup deemed an elite competition, their games were given the go-ahead by Sport Ireland and Hockey Ireland. Refusal to turn up is likely to be deemed a forfeit.

Cork Harlequins’ women, meanwhile, are seeking clarification on whether they will be punished for their failure to field in EY Hockey League games.

They did not travel to play Muckross a fortnight ago and have requested a postponement once again for this week’s EY Hockey League tie with Belfast Harlequins.

Hockey Ireland did seek submissions to explain their reason behind not fielding and a decision is expected on whether a punishment or refixture should occur.

The governing body’s rulebook, updated the day before the competition began, points to the former and a 5-0 defeat being recorded for any refusal to field.

Of the games set to go ahead, Old Alex’s date with Loreto in the women’s EY Hockey League looks to be the pick of the bunch. The Milltown club have two wins from two and have an exciting forward line that includes Emma Russell, Aine Connery, Deirdre Duke and Nikki Evans (above).

Loreto, though, have enjoyed clean sheets against UCD and Pembroke in the Jacqui Potter Cup with Hannah Matthews and goalkeeper Liz Murphy instrumental in achieving the shut-outs.