Shipperley Strike Seals Stunning Welsh Win In World League Opener

Coach Zak Jones hailed Wales’ superb 3-1 victory over Poland in their opening World League Rd 2 game in Belfast.

But Jones insisted there was still more to come from his Welsh side who saw off a side ranked 15 places above them.

Defender Gareth Furlong gave Wales the lead in the second quarter when he struck from a penalty corner.

The world ranked No 19 Poland started the second-half on the attack but were kept at bay by some fine Welsh defending.

And skipper Luke Hawker doubled the lead with a tap-in from a cross which ended a flowing Welsh move.

A fierce penalty corner strike saw Poland reduce the deficit in the final quarter, but Rupert Shipperley sealed the win after a one-two with James Carson.

Jones said: “We’re delighted to get the tournament started with a victory against a side ranked 15 places above us.

“Poland are a good side who presented us with some interesting challenges.

“Whilst I am obviously pleased with the result, some of our execution in attack was not at the level we expect of ourselves and there is plenty of room for improvement”

Wales face the second of their group games against Scotland on Sunday afternoon.