Walsh leads Irish in Portugal as Ireland face England in key Octagonal Matches clash

The Irish men’s team at the Octagonal Matches in Spain

Lahinch's Aideen Walsh added a 74 to her opening 73 to lead the Irish challenge in the Portuguese International Ladies Amateur Championship.

She's tied for 22nd on three-over at Montado Golf Resort, eight shots behind Portugal's Sofia Barroso, Italian Francesca Fiorellini and Germany's Helen Briem.

Hermitage's Kate Lanigan is tied 42nd on seven-over after making six birdies in an excellent 71, with Kirkistown Castle's Beth Coulter a shot further back after a 77.

Scores

It was a rest day for Ireland in the Octagonal Matches at Costa Ballena in Cadíz where England beat France 6.5-2.5.

Scores

France drew with Ireland in the Blue Group on Wednesday and with The Netherlands withdrawing from the tournament before the start, Ireland now face England today needing a win to qualify for the final agains the winners of the Red Group.

In the Red Group, Spain followed their 8-1 win over Portugal with a 4.5-4.5 draw with Italy despite losing all three foursomes.

The hosts now play Germany, who made it two wins from two with a 7-2 win over Portugal, for top spot in the Red Group.