Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Hockey
BILL COLWILL
reports from Dublin
Belarus, due to play Ireland in a televised match this afternoon on the opening day of the seventh Nissan European Championship, missed yesterday's opening ceremony and the tournament director's briefing and technically could have been ruled out of the competition. However, Roger Self, the tournament director took a lenient view and the match goes ahead.
The team had planned to travel by coach through England and Wales and were scheduled to arrive last Saturday. However, they overlooked the need for visas. Re-routed via France, they eventually arrived late yesterday.
England, who play Germany tomorrow, are in a confident mood. They finished their preparations with a 5-0 win against France yesterday.
With a defence which performed more than competently in the World Cup more or less intact and a proven midfield, England's big worry was in attack. The introduction of Calum Giles and the recall of Rob Thompson was looking good until England were woefully outplayed in two games in the Netherlands 10 days ago.
David Whitaker, the coach, appears to have done a good job in getting his squad going again, and confidence is high. Gold here would give Great Britain automatic qualification for the Olympics.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments