After subjecting England to constant pressure in a storming first half performance, Ireland lost their momentum after the interval and succumbed to a 4-2 defeat in their opening match in the Four Nations Under-21 hockey tournament at Milton Keynes yesterday.

Although England seized the lead after three minutes through David Matthews from a clinically executed short corner, it was Ireland who took up the offensive. Chris Jackson, from the back, and Brian Waring, in mid-field, were particularly forceful on the right flank.

After two set-piece shots by Justin Sherriff had been saved by Jonathan Ebsworth, a well-deserved equaliser was forged in the 20th minute. A weaving run by Andrew Cousins forced a penalty stroke for stick chopping and Jackson carried out the conversion.

But unsteadiness began to develop at the other end, and while Julian Lewis was especially resourceful at centre back, goals were conceded by his colleagues to Alistair Boyse, Mark Pearn and Matthews in the 50th, 55th and 63rd minutes.

There was little consolation that Ireland finished ahead on short corners (6-3), but at least when Waring made a final surge, substitute Simon Kershaw brought off the most delicate of touches to leave the scoreline more comforting.

Ireland: D McNeill; C Jackson, J Lewis, D Smyth (capt), D Holley; B Waring, G McKee, J Black; J Sherriff, G Shaw, A Cousins. subs: G Ringwood, C Beere, S. Kershaw.

Four Nations Under-21 tournament (Milton Keynes) - Germany 6 Belgium 1; England 4 Ireland 2.