Finland ready for finals

Sjölund again

Positive opening
England had seemed eager to avenge that loss tonight and made a bright start. They were rewarded for their domination when Sanderson, who scored her side's only goal two days ago, curled the ball beyond Finland goalkeeper Tinja-Riikka Korpela and into the top corner from outside the penalty area.

Laihanen chance
The hosts raised their game after the goal and began to exert pressure in midfield. With possession increased, Finland looked likely to restore parity and could have done when Taru Laihanen broke away, only to miss the target at the crucial moment. However, Finland did not have to wait long for a goal. It came in the 24th minute as captain Nelli Berg's right-wing cross allowed Sjölund to score with a header.

Tjeder on top
The home team were given further opportunities to score in the second half but Laihanen, who had scored twice on Tuesday, and Essi Sainio wasted their chances. Finland will take plenty of heart, however, from the match - particularly with Jannica Tjeder again proving solid in midfield with her committed play and precise passing unsettling England throughout.

Bounced back
Finland will play Group A rivals Germany in this same venue next Wednesday and coach Jarmo Matikainen was more than satisfied with his team. "We showed some character today. After being down a goal we bounced back and got control of the game. England have a good side and these two matches were very good preparation for the European Championship."

Opening match
Regarding their duel with the three-time European champions Germany in the tournament opener, Matikainen said: "We would rather play against a favourite sooner than later. We know how strong the Germans are, but we also know what we should do to contain them. We'll see on Wednesday if that is that enough."