Paddington’s Tin-Tin Ho secured the crucial victory as England came from behind to beat Slovenia in their first home European Championships qualifying tie on Tuesday.

The 18-year-old lost her first game to Slovenian No 1 Alex Galic, who is more than 50 places above her in the world rankings – but recovered to beat Tamara Pavcnik in the decider at Medway Park, Gillingham.

Ho said: “Playing at home I wanted to take the opportunity and perform under pressure. In the first match I wasn’t really playing my game – I was trying too hard.

“In the second match I relaxed a bit and even when she opened up I was able to block it back and get it on the table and move her around.”

Ho saved six game points in her clash with Galic, but eventually went down 3-0 (12-10, 11-7, 11-7).

She then defeated Pavcnik in four sets (6-11, 11-2, 11-5, 12-10).