Tough test for Team GB

Ashton United gave Team GB’s deaf stars the toughest of tests on Sunday, the Evo-Stik NPL outfit winning their friendly encounter 7-3.

The Premier Division Robins didn’t hold back as they helped the Team GB Deaf XI prepare for their forthcoming 2013 Deaflympics Qualification clash against Greece next month, the Robins putting out a surprisingly strong side at the Manchester County FA’s new HQ in Harpurhey.

Team GB play Greece at Ashford Town in Middlesex in September to qualify for the 2013 Deaflympics which are being held next summer in the Bulgarian capital Sophia and Ashton manager Danny Johnson ensured they were given a proper workout.

His team selection ncluded Terry Smith and Matty Barlow from Saturday's win over Worksop Town and several other first teamers including Kyle Harrop, Danny Lambert and Dave Sherlock, plus new signings Sam Hare and Josh Williams, also played in the win.

Ashton took an early lead with Sherlock scoring. That was soon doubled by Lambert as the Robins dominated before the break. Team GB certainly weren’t lacking in skill but appeared unused to the pace and physicality offered by the Evo-Stik NPL's semi-pros.

As a result Ashton raced into a five goal lead with Sherlock eventually bagging three and threatened to run away with the game before visibly easing off.

With Johnson playing an attacking 3-3-4 formation, the Deaf XI, stung by the scoreline, then showed their resilience in the second half by pulling back two goals.

For more information on deaf football in the UK and the Team GB side's qualification campaign visit: www.britishdeaffootball.com.