England impress in opening matches at IBSA Blind Euros 2015
England sail to the top of their group at the Blind Football European Championships after two impressive victories over Poland and Italy this weekend, at thePoint4 in Hereford.
On Saturday 22 August, England kicked off the opening match at the IBSA Blind Football European Championships 2015 lining up against Poland.
England made their intentions clear from the outset, with Roy Turnham (picutred below) scoring after seven minutes before Dan English doubled the hosts advantage scoring from the penalty spot in the 19th minute.
England continued to asert their dominance in the second half against Poland, with Robin Williams scoring twice in the opening 90 seconds. Dan English added his second goal of the match shortly after, taking advantage of the Polish tactic of pushing two players up front.
Williams secured his hat-trick, smashing the ball into the back of the net after a great switch pass from Turnham. England captain Keryn Seal also got on the score sheet, netting the final goal of the game from a free kick.
The whole team put in strong performances and while every player played a part in the win, Roy Turnham was named man of the match for his movement, work rate and tenacity.
Final score: England 7 - Poland 0
On Sunday 23 August, the final match of the day saw England take on Italy. The hosts took the lead in unusual fashion when a mix up between the Italian goalkeeper and D'Alessandro the Italian striker, resulted in the ball rolling into their own net.
The unexpected goal seemed to settle England and they started to stamp their authority on the match, forcing a string of impressive saves, including two penalty shots from La Macchia, the Italian keeper. At half time England went in 1-0 up.
England started the second half well and they scored two goals in quick succession through England’s man of the match Robin Williams (pictured above), his 4th and 5th goals of the tournament. Roy Turnham then sealed the win with a great solo run from inside his own half, beating two Italian players and then striking hard in to the bottom left corner.
Final score: England 4 - Italy 0
Next up for England is a thrilling encounter against Germany on Tuesday 25 August, 7.30pm at the Point4 in Hereford.
Photo credit: The FA
