THE IRISH WOMEN’S hockey team’s three-match unbeaten run has ended, after they were beaten 2-1 by India in the Four Nations Argentina tournament.

Gene Muller’s side found themselves two-down at half time having conceded goals in the 6th and 33rd minute, which were scored by Anuradha Thokchom and Jaspreet Kaur respectively.

Cliodhna Sargent then gave them hope with a goal from a penalty corner just after half time. However, despite the Irish putting considerable pressure on the Indian goal thereafter, they ultimately failed to find an equaliser.

Speaking in the aftermath of the defeat, Muller told reporters:

“We started the match down on energy and with too many possession errors which let them score two goals and us with a mountain to climb. Our second half performance was dominant and very gutsy but we failed to score the second goal to tie.

“These matches have been fantastic for us. The conditions are difficult with the heat and limited recovery but we have played at a high level in spite of the adversity.”

Ireland play Argentina on Saturday in a game that they need to win to have any chance of reaching the final of the tournament.

Read: Job done: O’Leary and Burrows qualify for London 2012>

Read: Reading between the lines: here’s our bumper Christmas list>