England got off to a winning start at the European Women's Championship when they beat Austria in front of a record crowd.

After just 16 minutes, Fran Kirby's lifted pass was touched over by the winger.

There was a roar from the majority of the crowd as they watched the VAR check, but they were made to wait nervously as there was a chance of an incorrect decision.

England started to dominate in Manchester after the early goal.

England's lack of ruthlessness may have been one of the criticisms of the first half.

Austria were reduced to few clear-cut chances after Mary Earps was called into action to deny Barbara Dunst in the second half.

The Lionesses have started their bid to win their first major tournament by extending their winning run to 15 matches.

The Norwegians are ranked 11th in the world and will be the toughest test of the group stages on Monday.

Job done for England

It was simple for England to win on the opening night.

It was not a great performance, but they did that and it gave the home fans a result they could celebrate.

Fans gathered outside the stadium hours before the game to pose for pictures in front of the statues.

As crews worked outside, Austria's fans gathered in numbers, chanting and draped in flags, trying to get in the background of television shots.

It was a memorable night, not for the performance but for the occasion, and England will hope to build on it as they prepare for a difficult match on Monday.

There will be more to come.

  • Relive England's win over Austria