Cyprus Cup 2013

Tony Leighton’s four-page report on England’s Cyprus Cup win, a triumphant start to the Euro 2013 build-up. England beat Italy 4-2, Jordan Nobbs marking her senior debut with the opening goal, drew a topsy-turvy 4-4 with Scotland, then beat New Zealand 3-1 before Rachel Yankey’s 70th-minute volley settled the final against Canada. Hope Powell calls the win a just reward and a confidence boost for the Euro finals. Scotland, under Anna Signeul eight years on from Vera Pauw, finish fifth, beating Italy 2-1 and Holland 1-0 through Kim Little, with Lisa Evans skipping round Rachel Brown to score against England. Northern Ireland lose all four games, Julie Nelson scoring in an 11th/12th place play-off lost on penalties to South Africa, while the Republic of Ireland win their group, beating NI 5-1. Ellen White finishes top scorer.