James and Greenwood on target as England win in Dublin

England earned their first Euro 2025 qualifying victory after a 2-0 win over the Republic of Ireland in Dublin.

Sarina Wiegman made five changes from the team that drew at home to Sweden last time out with Leah Williamson making her first start since last April.

The visitors dominated for much of the early proceedings and opened the scoring in the 12th minute. Keira Walsh's cross to the back post was headed into the danger area by Lucy Bronze. The ball bounced kindly off an Ireland defender for Lauren James to finish.

The second came just six minutes later from the penalty spot when Ruesha Littlejohn was penalised for a handball as she charged down Jess Park's shot.

Alex Greenwood stepped up to take the spot-kick, sending hers to the left as Courtney Brosnan dived the wrong way.

The Manchester City defender had the chance to make it three when England were awarded another penalty just before the half-hour mark. The awarding of the second penalty was harsh on Ireland as Louise Quinn's attempt to block a cross bounced off her knee and onto her arm.

This time though, Greenwood couldn't convert with her penalty bouncing off the inside of the post and out for a goal kick.

The home side grew in confidence in the second period after being second best for the first half. However, England should have put the game beyond doubt in the 65th minute when Beth Mead had an effort from point-blank range that was shot straight at Brosnan.

England's defence struggled as the Girls in Green played more direct with long throw-ins and free-kicks a particular danger.

Caitlin Hayes had what was probably the best chance for the Republic of Ireland when she was in space to head from a corner but her effort went straight in the direction of Hannah Hampton.

The Lionesses eventually managed to ride out a late storm and record an important victory ahead of hosting France in Newcastle at the end of May. Ireland meanwhile have lost their first two qualifiers in a difficult group with Sweden the next visitors to the Dublin Arena.

Job done in Dublin! 👏👏 pic.twitter.com/V0YQfWIg63

— Lionesses (@Lionesses) April 9, 2024