England hold off spirited Belgium fightback

England women have won one and lost one of their opening two Pro League matches

England held off a spirited fightback by Belgium to claim their first victory in the women's Pro League with a 3-1 win in China.

England were beaten by the hosts in their opening game on Sunday but recovered well and took an early lead against Belgium through teenager Lottie Bingham.

Belgium bounced back and had several opportunities to equalise but were denied by England goalkeeper Mila Welch.

Bingham, 18, doubled her tally quickly after the interval to hand England a 2-0 lead, but Belgium remained resolute and Vanessa Blockmans pulled one back.

Delphine Marien and Stephanie Vanden Borre should have levelled for Belgium but it was England who landed the crucial blow as Darcy Bourne’s drag flick deflected in to extend their lead late on.

Belgium continued to rally but England held on for an impressive three points in their second Pro League outing.

England move up to second in the table, behind China in first, while Belgium are third.

England will be looking to avenge Sunday's defeat when they face China in their next game on Wednesday (11:30 GMT).