‘We believe in ourselves’ – Johnny McKee insists Ireland can spring Spanish surprise and book Olympic men’s hockey ticket
Ireland's Johnny McKee in action during the FIH Men's Olympic Hockey Qualifying Tournament Pool A win over Japan
In the city of oranges, Ireland’s Johnny McKee hopes the Green Machine’s growing defence can once again bear fruit and qualify outright for the Paris Olympics on Friday.
Mark Tumilty’s side take on hosts Spain at 11.30am (Irish time) on Friday morning in another expected sell-out, with the men’s team hoping to reach Paris without being forced into the drama of a second chance saloon in the loser’s play-off match.
“We believe in ourselves and our defensive capabilities,” said McKee, the Banbridge and Ireland forward.
“We don’t want to rely on them as much as we did, however we have that in the back pocket, we are tough to break down and can keep a clean sheet. It’s rare in hockey.
“Our defence can be the best team here but we know we can do a lot more with the ball to progress in the competition.”
Ireland have been formidable at the back over the last week, conceding three times in their three group stage matches, which included a 4-2 defeat to Olympic champions Belgium.
Such is the rollercoaster nature of this qualifying format, Ireland saw that game as a “free shot” at Belgium, knowing that the Red Lions would likely qualify top.
As with the women’s side, Ireland men have played plenty of Test matches against Spain in the recent past.
The Spanish have, though, won their last six meetings and are unbeaten in 10 matches overall against Ireland. The Irish last beat Max Caldas’ side in 2017.
“We are really familiar with Spain,” added McKee, who has progressed to the senior squad after making his under-21 debut a decade ago.
“We are edging closer to them. We will go in as underdogs, we’re on away soil but we can give them a lot of problems and punish them on the counter.”
Inside the Campo de Hockey will be his ever-present mother, who has watched both her son and daughter, Katie, who has lined up with Ireland women this week.
“My mum has the best value in ticket sales this week watching the women's matches as well,” added the 27-year-old.
“It’s very special as a family to both have siblings internationally. It’s a family affair and hopefully we can all go home happy.”
Caldas, an Argentinian double Olympian who also coached Netherlands women to Olympic gold in 2012, said: “We must accept that we have a lot at stake.”
