Alessia Russo nets brace as five-star England brush aside Northern Ireland

Alessia Russo struck twice as England maintained their flawless start to Euro 2022 with a commanding 5-0 win over Northern Ireland at St Mary’s.

The Lionesses have now scored 14 times without reply in their three Group A matches to finish in top spot and will face the runners-up from Group B – either Spain or Denmark – in the quarter-finals.

Northern Ireland started defensively looking to contain already-qualified England, and managed to keep them at bay until the 40th minute when Fran Kirby’s lofted curled strike broke the deadlock.

Beth Mead quickly doubled the host nation’s advantage with her fourth goal of the tournament just before half-time before an impressive England eased further clear after the break in front of 30,785 fans in Southampton.

Russo, having replaced Ellen White at half-time, epitomised the impact substitute role, finding the net twice in quick succession soon after the restart.

England’s fifth and final goal came in unfortunate fashion for Northern Ireland, Kelsie Burrows slicing the ball over goalkeeper Jacqueline Burns and into her own net.

Northern Ireland came into the match having already been eliminated from quarter-final contention, but it was the visitors who had the first chance when Lauren Wade raced down the right and cut inside before drawing a save out of England goalkeeper Mary Earps.

England were soon on the attack themselves though, and looked to have been given a great chance to take the lead when they awarded an early penalty for handball. However, the decision was reviewed by VAR before referee Esther Staubli was called over to the monitor and subsequently overturned her decision for an England handball in the build up.

Northern Ireland managed to keep England at bay in the 16th