Ireland staged a brave fight against title-holders England on the opening day of the men's Home International championship at Royal St George's, Sandwich, yesterday, but slipped to an agonising defeat.

Although the scoreline of 8½-6½ in England's favour appears reasonably comfortable, five matches ended with honours even and another four games went as far as the 17th hole.

Ireland were at times in inspired form, and a spirited fightback in the foursomes saw the Irish go into lunch just 3-2 behind.

The singles came down to the final match, and Richard Kilpatrick needed to beat Steven Tiley to gain a share of the overall honours. For much of the time this match was all square, but the Englishman squeezed home on the last.

Wales were in magnificent form as they overwhelmed Scotland 9½-5½.

Today Ireland face Wales, and Scotland play England.