England Blind settle for Silver at the IBSA World Games

Saturday 16 May 2015
England Blind collect their silver medals in Korea

England Blind had to settle for silver medals after suffering late heartache in the final of the IBSA World Games.

The Three Lions – playing in their first IBSA final in six years – had led through a 24th-minute Dan English penalty. 

But Argentina scored twice in the final 37 seconds to claim the title.

Dan English puts England Blind ahead against Argentina

After English had given Jon Pugh's side the lead they had a number of chances to consolidate their advantage. 

But they were unable to convert and conceded twice – the second of which a penalty with six seconds remaining – and had to settle for silver.

Despite the disappointment, they will take solace from the fact they went far further than many would have predicted at the outset of the campaign.

“Football is a cruel game but this young squad will learn from the experience”

Jon Pugh England Blind head coach

En route to the final they beat hosts South Korea, Japan and Georgia – and earned a hard-fought draw against China. 

Speaking after the medal ceremony, head coach Pugh said: "I am very proud of the way we performed today, on another occasion we would win the game. 

"Football is a cruel game but this young squad will learn from the experience and comeback stronger as a result at the Europeans".

The IBSA Blind Football European Championships 2015 will be held at thePoint4 at the Royal National College for the Blind from 22-29 August 2015.

Click here for more information.

By Jamie Reid Senior Writer