Hockey World Cup: England leave it late to beat Ireland and book place against Korea

Giselle Ansley scored a deflected effort form a penalty corner seven minutes from time to secure a narrow 1-0 victory over group winners Ireland

England celebrate their winning goal during the 1-0 victory over Ireland at the Women's Hockey World Cup (Getty)

Giselle Ansley's late goal sealed England's place in the crossover phase of the hockey World Cup after a hard-fought victory over Ireland at Lee Valley.

Ansley's final-quarter effort from a penalty corner proved enough for Danny Care's side, who went into the game knowing a draw would be enough to advance.

Ireland had already earned their place in the quarter-finals as group winners following wins over the United States and India in their opening two matches.

Giselle Ansley scored England's crucial winner (AP)

And now England will face Korea on Tuesday for the right to take on favourites the Netherlands in the last eight.

England will know they need to improve if they are to stand any hope of advancing further, despite dominating possession against their resolute Irish opponents.

Ireland goalkeeper Ayeisha McFerran pulled off some good saves and England wasted a series of penalty corners before Ansley finally struck seven minutes from time with a shot that deflected in off the stick of Hannah Matthews.

It was England's first win of the tournament after a below-par start which saw them held to 1-1 draws by both the United States and India.

PA