England won the European Under-17 Championship four years after their last triumph by holding their nerve in a penalty shoot-out against the Netherlands after the final in Malta had finished all-square.

In what Roy Hodgson must hope is a good omen for the World Cup in Brazil next month, England had a perfect record from the spot, while goalkeeper Freddie Woodman saved one Dutch effort with another going wide.

Chelsea striker Dominic Solanke had given John Peacock's side a deserved lead in the 25th minute after the Netherlands failed to clear a corner properly. However, they were pegged back on the brink of half-time as a superb flick from Steven Bergwijn allowed Jari Schuurman to equalise with a precise half-volley.

Dani van de Moot and Fulham playmaker Patrick Roberts both had chances to win it in the latter stages but after 80 minutes the game went to penalties.

PA