After producing one of their finest displays since coach Riet Kuper took charge in 1998 - when only a poor umpiring decision robbed them of a 1-0 victory over England on Saturday - Ireland failed to reproduce that form in yesterday's 2-0 defeat by the same opposition in Blaris.

Sweeper Arlene Boyles excelled in Saturday's display, described by Kuper as "fantastic", a performance that was capped two minutes from time by a superb Karen O'Brien goal.

England, however, equalised through Denise Marston-Smith after the final hooter from a short corner that should never have been awarded.

There was frustration with that result and some more yesterday with a scoreline that flattered England. England scored twice, in the 37th and 49th minutes, through Sarah Blanks and Anna Bennett.

At the other end Tara Browne made two stunning saves from Lucilla Wright and Blanks.