Canada commenced their 3 Nations series in Cape Town today with an emphatic win over Ireland. The Canadian team controlled the tempo throughout the first half with ball speed, strong leading and constant pressure. The Irish had no answer for the fast Canadian attack, which repeatedly penetrated the 25yd area. Tiffany Michaluk, Philippa Kedgley and Stephanie Hume had a strong game up front for Canada. The first goal of the game came in the 29th minute when Philippa Kedgley slotted a rebound from goalkeeper Shauna Frey. The Canadian team generated several attack penalty corners but a second goal evaded them.
The Irish team rebounded in the second half and increased their ball possession. The strong Canadian defense of Andy Rushton, Clare Linton, Megan Anderson and Katie Rushton however were outstanding and limited the Irish to only one shot on goal and no attack penalty corners for the game. Canada's second goal came in the 41st minute when Christine Depape deflected the ball on an attack penalty corner into the roof of the net.
Cailie O'Hara received her first cap for Canada. Strong performances by all the Canadian team resulted in the 2-0 victory over the inexperienced Irish squad. Canada plays the South African team tomorrow who on the first few days of play, defeated Ireland 2-1.
Canada - Ireland 2:0
Goals
Canada 29th min. Philippa Kedgley-FG
Canada 41st min. Christine DePape-PC
Source: FieldHockey Canada
