First-half goal gives Germany victory in Four Nation Tournament.
England Women's U23s
0-1 Germany
Four Nation Tournament
3pm (GMT), Monday 22 February 2010
La Manga, Spain
Brent Hills' England Women's U23 side slipped to a 1-0 defeat to Germany in their opening match of the Four Nation Tournament in La Manga.
The decisive goal came in the 18th minute, with England momentarily down to ten players, however Hills' charges could have found themselves two goals to the good by this stage had they been able to convert some of the early chances they created.
The goal allowed the Germans to grow into the game and gradually puncture England's early zest and they might have gone into half time 2-0 up but the crossbar came to England's rescue.
England improved after the break, demonstrating a great work ethic and competitive spirit. They also enjoyed more possession but were unable to convert this possession into clear-cut chances and Germany held on for the win.
England's next game is on Wednesday against Norway.
England1 Ashley Baker, 2 Chelsea Weston (16 Stephanie Houghton, 71), 3 Ellie Gilliatt (17 Sarah Kempson, 21), 4 Remi Allen (14 Natasha Dowie, 71), 5 Fern Whelan, 6 Sophie Bradley (C), 7 Jade Moore, 8 Michelle Hinnigan, 9 Ellen White, 10 Rachel Williams (12 Brooke Chaplen, 46), 11 Dannii Bird
Substitutes not used 13 Carly Telford, 15 Kerys Harrop, 18 Claire Rafferty