Madeline Perry was pushed all the way in her opening encounter as Ireland got off to a fine start at the European Squash Championships, with both the women's and men’s teams securing wins.
Perry, who ended her professional career with victory at the Irish Open last weekend, was made to work in securing Ireland’s first point against Wales. She eventually overcame Tesni Evans 3-2.
Ireland’s women, playing in Division 1, won two pool matches, beating fifth-seeds Wales 3-0 before seeing off Spain 2-1.
Laura Mylotte then beat Hannah Williams 3-1 before Aisling Blake beat Deon Saffrey 3-1.
Perry again led from the front in the game against Spain, beating Xisela Aranda 3-0. Blake then beat Marina De Juan by the same margin, before Ciara Moloney was beaten 3-0 by Margaux Pitarch Moros.
The wins mean Ireland qualify for the semi-finals, where they will play France. Before that, they will play their final pool game, against England on Thursday morning.
Ireland’s men also tasted victory in Division 2, beating the Czech Republic 3-1.
Arthur Gaskin secured Ireland’s first point, beating Jan Koukal 3-2, while Brian O Broin saw off Martin Svec 3-1. Martin Craig lost 3-0 to Daniel Mekbib before Steve Richardson sealed victory with a 3-1 win over Jakub Solnicky.
