Joanna Rojas and Francia Hernandez had put Mexico 2-0 up inside the first period in the Barys Arena as the European side struggled to compete.

Kimberley Lane pulled one back in the 52nd minute to reduce the arrears.

They had to wait for the final stages before a second goal from Saffron Allen.

Angela Taylor then struck moments later for a stunning victory.

"These games are always hard and we had a high expectation," said Britain's assistant coach James Ashton afterwards.

"Training has been good but we made a slow start to the game and made a couple of small mistakes to allow Mexico two goals.

"We had a sharp discussion at the end of the first period, but what was good to see was that the experienced players delivered and the young players didn’t let their heads drop."

Hosts Kazakhstan also got off to a winning start in today's other Group G contest in their capital city.

Three goals in the second period, including two from Daria Moldabai, powered them to a 4-1 success over Poland.

Action in Group H is due to start tomorrow at the Palacio del Hielo Txuri Urdin as hosts Spain do battle with The Netherlands, Italy and Slovenia.

Winners of both groups will progress to preliminary round three, the penultimate qualifying round.

Two final groups to decide Pyeongchang places will then be held in February.