Ireland Secures First 2024-25 Pro League Win Over Belgium in Antwerp

Ireland's men's hockey team secured their first win of the 2024-25 FIH Pro League campaign by defeating world number two Belgium 3-2 in Antwerp, a day after suffering a 5-1 loss to the same opponents. Goalkeeper Jamie Carr played a crucial role by saving a first-half penalty stroke and making key saves throughout the match, helping Ireland maintain a strong defensive performance. Louis Rowe and Lee Cole each scored for Ireland, with Cole netting two penalty corners, while Belgium's Nicolas De Kerpel and Thomas Crols scored consolation goals. This victory marked a significant turnaround for Ireland, who had struggled to win against Belgium this year despite beating them twice the previous year. Carr expressed satisfaction with the team's improved defensive efforts and the morale boost from this win. Ireland is set to face Australia next in the league.