WOMEN'S HOCKEY: HAVING SHOWN some encouraging form in the first of their four nations tournaments in Argentina, Ireland produced another impressive performance in the opening game of the second tournament, although having twice led South Africa they had to settle for a draw.

A week ago Gene Muller’s team lost 2-0 to his native country, but this time Aine Connery gave them the ideal start when she scored after just two minutes. Ireland held that lead until seven minutes into the second half, when they conceded from a penalty corner, but captain Alex Speers restored the advantage within five minutes from another set-piece. South Africa, though, secured a draw with a second equaliser seven minutes from time in a game that saw Loreto midfield pair Liz Colvin and Niamh Small impress.

Muller has been heartened by the displays in Argentina, all against teams ranked above Ireland, not least by last weekend’s 2-2 draw with the hosts, second in the world list.

The squad, without the experienced trio of Emma Clarke, Emma Smyth, and Nikki Symmons, complete their schedule against India – who they have played twice so far, winning one and drawing one – Argentina and, on Sunday, their classification match.

Back home, there’s just one Leinster Division One match scheduled, Three Rock due to host Pembroke Wanderers tomorrow.

The Loreto v Railway Union game, due to be played on Wednesday night, was postponed due to a frozen pitch.

WEEKEND FIXTURE

Tomorrow – Leinster Senior League: Three Rock Rovers v Pembroke, Grange Road, 1pm.