Ireland faced off with old rivals, Czech Republic, to battle it out for a place in the 9th - 10th Place Play Offs and automatic qualification for the 2011 European Championships. The team was confident going into the game having beaten the Czechs twice this year already in the qualifiers in Dublin in early February. Ireland took a decisive lead in the first quarter, showing great determination in every part of the court and punishing the Czechs for any mistake they made. Ireland took the opportunity to develop some of their newer line ups and give players an opportunity to gain some valuable experience in high level games. Ireland held the lead throughout the game but had to battle it out in the final quarter to keep it when Czech tried to fight their way back into the game with a few quick turn overs. With a final few turnovers created by the Irish it was a relief to hear that final buzzer and finish the game with a win 48 - 44 and have confimred their automatic entry into the 2011 European Championships.   It was a great game by the Irish, the team continue to develop together and with the change in classification of Stephen Aylmer and Deirdre Mongan, it has opened up the chance for some new line ups for the long term. Ireland will face Denmark on the main court at 9am tomorrow in a game that will be tough against a home team with the crowd behind them.

For up to date results and more information on other games and on the overall European Championships visit www.ecwheelchairrugby2009.dk. For all the latest updates on the Irish Teams progress check us out on www.gaelicwarriors.com.

For Further Information contact Irish Wheelchair Rugby Team Manager Naomi O'Reilly at email address This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or at Mobile +353 87 757 6303.