Hockey: Danson excels as England beat Irish

Alex Danson, Trojans' 17- year-old striker, scored the first goal for her country as England put up a workmanlike performance to beat Ireland 3-1 in their opening game in the Women's World Cup in Perth yesterday.

England started brightly, but failed to score from three early chances and a couple of penalty corner misses before their opening goal from Helen Grant in the ninth minute. Six minutes later Danson dived in to touch home Grant's shot and England were in control.

An uncharacteristic error by defender Mel Clewlow five minutes into the second half allowed the Irish back into the game as Mandy Nicholson conceded a penalty stroke. Ireland's Arlene Boyles made no mistake from the spot.

Relief came for England just after they were reduced to ten following the temporary suspension of Anne Panter as Leisa King latched on to a cross to score England's third goal on her 30th birthday.

Scotland, playing in their first World Cup, lost 1-2 to Ukraine. Scotland's goal came from Louise Carroll.

MEADOW LEA WOMEN'S WORLD CUP (Perth, WA) Day One: Pool A: China 0 Korea 0; Russia 0 Germany 4; Argentina 1 New Zealand 0; Ukraine 2 Scotland 1. Pool B: Spain 1 Japan 1; England 3 Ireland 1; Australia 4 United States 0; Netherlands 3 South Africa 0.