The Men were the first to take to the pitch as they played the first half of their game against a stacked Éire team. This squad consisted of a fair few International players and some budding international Development team players, whilst Cheltenham featured a few players who were stepping on a lacrosse pitch in men's kit for the first time!

Formidable competition for any team, but Cheltenham held their own and won the first half with a good lead of 6-3. Cheltenham Men showed that teamwork really does make the dream work, with tight defence with the long poles Rhys, Gary and Joe and some great saves from Goalie James. Midfield played hard on a massive pitch and the attack unit made the Éire defence pay when they stopped communicating and gave Cheltenham space.

Next up the Women played Dublin Lacrosse Club. Dublin were fresh home from finishing 4th at the Ken Gallucio Tournament (only the best European Clubs being invited to play here!) and again boasting a selection of National Team members. This game was a touch closer than the Men's but the Women came out victorious 5-4; really showing the strength of Cheltenham going in to the domestic season. Defence again were locked in and attack getting some really good shots on goal against a talented keeper.

Round Two for the men saw Éire take a bit more control of the game as they won the second half by one goal. Cheltenham failed to take advantage of a Man Up play but kept their heads high and hustled like hell all over the pitch! The overall score for both halves was 10-8 in favour of the boys in black and blue!

The Women matched up against a younger Éire Development squad, made up of the best and brightest coming up through the ranks of Ireland Lacrosse. The Women played with composure and kept their level of play against a weaker team. Not rushing in attack was key, but waiting for the right opportunity to come along. Cheltenham won well 10-3.

It wouldn't have been a trip to the Emerald Isle with out a night out watching Ireland beat SA in the rugby and a fair amount of Guinness consumed with our new Irish Friends!

Until next time Dublin!!