Report: England Powerchair 1-0 Belgium

England booked their place in the EPFA Nations Cup final after a battling it out with Belgium in a 1-0 victory in Italy.

The Para Lions eventually broke the deadlock in extra time thanks to another decisive impact from substitute Dylan Kelsall.

England, who had gone into the tie expecting a tough test, started the game enjoying the majority of possession.

Belgium’s shape left pockets of room for England to play into, and the first half saw improved passing patterns from Adam McEvoy’s side. But despite an array of chances, they couldn’t find a breakthrough as it remained goalless goalless at the interval.

The introduction of Kelsall midway through the second half injected fresh energy, and although the match opened up somewhat, the Para Lions continued to be frustrated as Belgium grew into the contest. However, England’s defensive line remained solid.

With 40 minutes gone and no goals scored, the game went to extra time and within two minutes, England finally broke through.

Captain Jon Bolding delivered a pinpoint diagonal ball to Kelsall, who tucked his shot into the far corner – another impressive strike from the winger who has made a habit of making an impact as a substitute during the tournament.

Belgium struck the outside of the post in the closing stages, but England held firm to secure a 1-0 victory and their spot in the final.

“I can’t see because of the headrest, so I was hoping the gap was there,” recalled the scorer. “I had to take the weight off the ball from Jon and try tuck it in the corner. I think it was a long time coming. We were prodding them for ages.”

And England’s Ed Common also praised the team’s patience throughout the semi-final tie.

“It was a tough match, but we just had to stay patient and eventually we got the chance and took it,” he explained, in the aftermath.

England will embark on their final game of the tournament tomorrow against France, looking to bring home the coveted trophy.

“The only disappointment from this game would’ve been we didn’t really take our chances,” analysed Kelsall. “That’s one thing we need to do tomorrow – that’ll be the difference between us coming home European champions or not.”