FABRICE MUAMBA played the full 90 minutes as ten-man England registered a hard-fought victory against Finland in their opening European Championship game.

The Wanderers midfielder played a crucial role in the Group B victory.

Lee Catermole put the young Three Lions in front after 15 minutes but Stuart Pearce's men suffered a major set-back when defender Michael Mancienne was dismissed after half-an-hour.

The Finn's equalised several minutes later when Sparv smashed home a penalty.

But Manchester City defender Micah Richards ensure the win went to England with a winner on 53 minutes.

England will now face Spain on Thursday before taking on Germany.