Sotherton Saunters to Gold

Kelly Sotherton justified her position as overwhelming favourite by claiming heptathlon gold in the Commonwealth Games in Melbourne today.

Sotherton saw her commanding lead after five events almost cut in half following another poor javelin display, but fourth in the final event, the 800m, was easily good enough to seal victory.

England team-mate Jessica Ennis, 20, was pipped to the silver medal by Australian Kylie Wheeler after taking a one-point lead into the 800m. Sotherton finished with 6,396 points, Wheeler on 6,298 and Ennis on 6,269.

But there was further disappointment for England's sprinters in the 200m as Chris Lambert picked up a groin injury in the heats and Darren Campbell when he was disqualified from the second round.

Campbell, 30, finished fourth in his heat in 20.94 seconds - and would have qualified for the semi-finals as one of the fastest losers - but was deemed to have run on the line separating lane eight from lane seven.

The England team immediately launched an appeal, although television replays suggest he will have a hard time getting the decision overturned.

Marlon Devonish finished third in his heat to advance.