Early goals decisive as England down Norway

Two goals in the opening seven minutes set England on their way to victory against Norway and a three-point lead at the top of UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifying Group 8.

Craig Dawson gave the visitors a third-minute lead when he headed in a corner from Henri Lansbury, with Jordan Henderson swiftly doubling the advantage at the far post following Marvin Sordell's left-wing delivery.

Though Valon Berisha reduced the hosts' arrears midway through the first half from a perfect pass by Markus Henriksen, Norway were unable to force an equaliser.

England − who lost Dawson for eight minutes before half-time while the defender underwent treatment to a head injury − were always dangerous on the break and came closest to a third late on when Lansbury struck the bar from close range.

The victory leaves England three points ahead of Norway and five clear of third-placed Belgium, who face the Nordic nation on 10 November, when Stuart Pearce's host Iceland.