England fought hard to earn a 2-1 win over Ireland in their first game at the EuroHockey Championships.

A first England goal for Suzy Petty, a phenomenal drag flick from Giselle Ansley and some true-to-form scintilating saves from Maddie Hinch were countered only by a goal from Ireland's Beth Barr to ensure England took maximum points.

Hinch, the hero during England's Olympic triumph in Rio 2016, was on top form making a crucial momentum saving stop to deny Elizabeth Colvin an Irish goal going into half time and with just two minutes on the clock kept the ball out to secure the England win.

A close range sweep from Petty put England's first on the board to close out the first quarter and an inspired drag flick from Ansley sent England into half-time 2-0 up.

Ireland were helped back into contention by Beth Barr who somehow managed to sneak one past the 'Hinchpin' of the England side but they clung on and play Germany in their next game.

A tournament win would ensure Great Britain's qualification for Tokyo 2020 where they will be hoping to defend their Olympic title. If not, they will play a two-legged winner-takes-all qualifier in November.