Irish hockey has rarely seen anything like it, such was the outpouring of emotion after the men’s side’s heartbreaking Olympic qualification final defeat on Sunday.
Being a reporter at this time is an unenviable position; the protagonists are teary, red-faced and crestfallen and the last thing they want is being asked to distil their thoughts into a voice recorder.
Twitter, therefore, provides insight from a different perspective, and on the tweeter’s own watch. Here’s a sample of the thoughts from players, clubs and supporters in the aftermath of Irish hockey’s closest of close calls – feel free to add your own in the comments.
So proud of all of you. Absolutely heart-breaking way to lose and very hard to get over, but you will bounce back. You are a fantastic team and have made massive strides for hockey in Ireland. Heads up