IRELAND suffered an unexpected 84-73 defeat at the hands of Cyprus in their opening European championship preliminary group game in Reykjavik, Iceland, last night.

The result is a distinct setback to Enda Byrt and his squad, who harbour serious ambitions of finishing in the top two of their pool and qualify for the championship proper next year.

Ireland started well enough and led 13-3 after five minutes. Although they relinquished that lead they regained the advantage to go in 36-33 ahead at half time.

However, Cyprus took the lead soon after the restart and although Ireland were still only five points adrift entering the final minute of the match, they committed two intentional fouls which Cyprus exploited to stretch away to an eleven point victory.

Those intentional fouls could cost Ireland dearly if the group is tied at the end of the week and Ireland's fate is determined by points difference.

Ireland will play Albania this evening in a match they must win to remain serious challengers. Albania lost to Denmark 99-65 last night.