From the 1st March, two new rules will be introduced to the game of hockey in Ireland.
The first change allows a defender to save a shot at goal which is above shoulder height. At present only goalkeepers are permitted to play the ball with any part of their sticks when it is above shoulder height. This will continue to apply to general play throughout the field but the change means that defenders can use their sticks to stop or deflect a high shot at goal as long as they do so safely.
The second change means it will no longer be necessary for attackers to stop the ball before taking a shot at goal at a penalty corner. However, the ball will still have to travel outside the circle before a shot can be taken. All other requirements for taking a penalty corner continue to apply.
