Perfect England make progress

Two second-half goals gave England a third successive win in elite round Group 7 and comfortably assured them of a place in the UEFA European Under-17 Championship finals for the sixth time in manager John Peacock's eight-year reign.

The opening 40 minutes were cagey with incessant rain and a tricky surface making it difficult for England to exert their authority over a dogged Slovakia side and it was only after the break that the game came to life.

Connor Wickham had already seen the offside flag prevent a certain score when he struck the opening goal on the hour mark, prodding home after Patrik Gábriš had only been able to palm down Chuks Aneke's powerful drive.

Harry Kane later proved an inspired substitution, scoring with a header from a corner with his first touch after being introduced in the 76th minute as England confirmed their place in Liechtenstein in May.

Peacock was proud that his side's nerve had held, saying: "Patience is a word that I have put up on the board all week. As well as wanting to get on the ball and be creative it was important that we waited for our opportunities and didn't panic."