Irish team takes silver at European cross-country

Paula Radcliffe claimed her a second Spar European Cross Country title after a determined challenge from Elvan Abeylegesse.

The two-time world cross country champion finished nine seconds ahead of the Turkey’s Abeylegesse in a time of 22 minutes 04 seconds, with Hungary’s Aniko Kalovics a distant third.

Radcliffe, winner of the title five years ago, finally managed to break clear halfway through the final lap of a thrilling race.

The 29-year-old became the first woman to win the women’s individual title for a second time and also led the Norwich Union Great Britain side to team glory for the first time.

With sister-in-laws Hayley and Liz Yelling fifth and eighth and Hayley Tullett 11th, the team scored a runaway success with a total of 25 points.

That saw them finish well clear of Ireland on 78 points who were led by fourth-placed Sonia

O’Sullivan, with Portugal third on countback ahead of France.