Ireland are in action against Germany in the men's hockey at the Rio Olympics, and for the second time in three games, one of the main talking points concerned the Irish national anthem pre-game.
In the opener against India, Ger Canning introduced the anthem as Ireland's Call, before the PA System and players belted out Amhrán na bhFiann. The confusion came from the fact that Ireland usually compete under Ireland's Call - a la the rugby squad - but given they are competing under a tricolour at the Olympics, Amhrán na bhFiann was used. Confusion reigned, exacerbated by the fact that this was the first time the Irish men had qualified for the Olympics since independence.
By today, however, we all knew what tune to expect. Canning and the viewers could relax in the anticipation of Amhrán na bhFiann. So he introduced it as normal, only for the PA system to fail. With no music playing, the Irish team had to belt the anthem acapella.
You can give marks for effort, at least:
Ireland were narrowly beaten 3-2 against Germany, unfortunately, off the back of defeats against India and Holland.
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