England Cerebral Palsy team register 6-0 victory over Japan.
Arafura Games 2009
Cerebral Palsy seven-a-side tournament
Wednesday 13 May 2009
Marrara Stadium, Darwin, Australia
The Three Lions were in top form in their second game at the Arafura Games in Australia, with debutant Dean Cathwright scoring two goals in a 6-0 victory over Japan.
The scoring opened as early as the 15th minute when Martin Sinclair's marauding run and cross was met by an unmarked Graham Le Clerc at the far post and the Japanese goalkeeper unable to keep the firm header out.
England continued to attack in waves, although they didn’t score the second until 23rd minute. After a period of England possession, Cathwright played the ball into Richard Fox who coolly finished with a well placed shot into the bottom corner.
The first half performance was complete after a series of quick interplay which found Le Clerc free once more at the far post. He fired across the goalkeeper, who allowed the ball to slip out of this control for Cathwright to score the first of his brace of goals.
Leon Taylor replaced Jordan Raynes in goal at half-time and England started very quickly, having a number of opportunities early on. After 39 minutes, Matt Dimbylow’s long range effort was fumbled by the goalkeeper, gifting a tap-in for Richard Fox.
The English pressure continued and after a series of corners Karl Townshend headed his first England goal in the 53rd minute. Cathwright completed the scoring in the 54th minute after the goalkeeper failed to deal with a shot and presented another simple opportunity from close range.
Coach Jeff Davis commented: “We are very pleased with the way we played today. We have been able to involve all the squad and everybody has played really well when given their chance. Tomorrow we play Korea for a place in the semi-final.
“This tournament has been very pleasing as we have learnt a great deal about the players especially those who have gained their first cap in Australia.”
England: 1 Jordan Raynes (Taylor 30), 2 Karl Townshend (Whatey 55), 3 Matt Dymbylow, 4 Martin Sinclair, 5 Dean Cathwright, 6 Richard Fox , 7 Graham Le Clerc
For full details and fixtures at the Arafura Games, click here