Blind squad learn lessons

Courtesy: thefa.com

The England Blind squad travelled to Buenos Aires, Argentina to take part in the 2nd IBSA five-a-side football competition from 13th - 20th April 2004.

Despite three senior players (Darren Harris, Lee Greatbach, Darren Cook) being unable to attend through illness or injury, four younger players were given an opportunity to gain experience against quality opposition.

Joining the Three Lions were current World Champions Argentina, Brazil, Greece and current European Champions, Spain.

In the first game against Spain, England fielded what was considered their most experienced team. Both teams started cautiously but it was Spain who scored after 10 minutes. John Pugh had an outstanding game in goal and Ajmal Ahmed was equally sound on the right hand side, but with England's frontmen having a quiet game, Spain added a late second to win 2-0.

Next up were hosts Argentina. The same team started but were hit by an early goal and a second from the Argentineans looked an ominous sign. After a frank team talk, England hit back through David Clarke. England then matched the champions for a considerable time, only to be hit by two late goals which rather flattered the reigning World Champions, making the final score 4-1.

England's third game against Greece resulted in a win on penalties after a 1-1 draw, with the England Coaching staff buoyed by some promising performances.

Nick Killen came in on the right side and Adrian Briant on the left hand side, whilst Ajmal Ahmed moved to the centre of the defence, a new position for him. Nick and Andrew, whilst young and inexperienced, showed absolutely no nerves and gave outstanding debuts as did Ajmal in the centre of the defence.

Kyle Waring also came on during the second half in goal and proved beyond doubt he has grown in maturity and ability, another plus for the future.

The final game pitted England against Brazil. Despite going down 3-1, England played some excellent football, Brazil scored first and added a controversial second. A Dave Clarke goal pulled the Lions back to 2 - 1 and with a chance to equalise, Clarke missed a penalty. Brazil added a late third, but after a tremendous battling performance, England finished on a high, and also became the only country to score against Brazil.

Tony Larkin's Three Lions also walked away with the Fair Play Trophy after being the only country not to receive any yellow or red cards.

As Argentina, Brazil and Spain are almost full time and playing regularly in leagues, this tournament gave the England camp a taster of what still needs to be achieved over the next three years, to create a future training and playing structure in order to compete on the world stage.

Keep logged onto TheFA.com for news of a World Championships to be staged in England later in 2004.....

England:
Ajmal Ahmed
Andrew Briant
David Clarke (captain)
Steve Cunningham
Simon Hill
Nick Killen
John Pugh (GK)
Adrian Snelgrove
Kyle Waring (GK)
Steve Winter