Spain, the reigning European champions, had raced into a 2-0 lead inside the opening 15 minutes before Clarke reduced the deficit with a right foot drive just before half time.

The Spanish seemed to be heading towards a win when they made it 3-1 against the run of play in the second half but Clarke pulled a goal back from the restart with a weaving run and the Harpenden hitman ensured that Great Britain would go away with a point from their opening game when he completed his hat trick with just five minutes to go.

Great Britain Performance Manager, Jeff Davis, was delighted with the result against strong opposition: “It was a thrilling and compelling game between two old rivals. Dave’s hat trick had the whole crowd on its feet and a draw against the tournament holders is a great start for us.”

Great Britain need to reach the final in order to qualify for the 2008 Paralympics in Beijing and their Euro campaign continues later today (Tuesday) against Italy with a place in the semi finals at stake.