SA men edged by Ireland

London - The South African men's hockey team lost 4-2 to Ireland in the Investec London Cup in London on Wednesday.

The South Africans trailed 2-1 at the interval, but suffered the same scoreline in the second stanza.

The Irish went 1-0 ahead in the 19th minute when Shane O'Donoghue steered his side's third penalty corner into the backboard.

South Africa replied six minutes later with an equaliser.

Taine Paton drilled the ball on the bounce past Irish keeper David Harte to make it 1-1.

South Africa's joy was short-lived as Michael Darling restored Ireland's lead with a good finish to put his side 2-1 in front just on the half hour mark.

The Irish increased their advantage to three with Alan Sothern's brace in the 41st and 45th minutes, as the South Africans found themselves 4-1 behind.

South Africa were able to respond in the 47th minute, through a Lance Louw score, but could not find any further reward in the match.