Leading 14-9 at half time, the team went on to win 29-17 against a side who finished third in the Challenge Trophy last time.

 

“We were able to put what we have been training into the game,” said head coach Jesper Holmris.

 

“Especially in fast breaks and defence.”

 

Although the attack was mainly fast breaks and some could have been executed better, the excellent work in defence by players such as Lynn McCafferty, Sarah Bourne and Yvette Frings allowed Britain to keep the lead and build up a five-goal advantage at half time, 14-9.

 

The second half started well and the game quickly settled into a similar tempo to the previous half making it a great game for fast breaks and especially left wing Holly Lam-Moores who managed to score eight goals.

 

Britt Goodwin was the next leading scorer with five goals while Sarah Hargreaves had an excellent match as goalkeeper.

 

But while his players put in a strong defensive performance, Holmris saw the need for improvement in attack.

 

He said: “It is clear that we need to work on our set attacking play.

 

"But this is the next long-term goal for the GB women.

 

"This shows that we are on the way to achieving our goals.”

 

McCafferty,the captain, said: “It was a massive win for us today as the start of the Challenge Trophy.

 

"With a huge team effort, there was no one giving less than 100 per cent.”

 

Following their opening match, the British team continue their Challenge Trophy campaign with a match against favourites the Faroe Islands tomorrow, then tackle Estonia on Friday.

 

The cross-group matches and semi finals take place on Saturday, with the minor places being decided on Sunday.