Foundation

WBA Blind retain National League Cup

WBA Blind have retained the National League Cup with a dramatic penalty shootout victory against the Royal National College for the Blind.

Victors of the Brian Aaron's Cup in 2018, this year's win is even more memorable for the team after playing their final two games a man down due to an untimely injury.

Along the way the side defeated current league champions Merseyside Blind, a team that boasts four England international players.

Coupled with stormy conditions, The Albion Foundation Head of Disability and WBA Blind Head Coach, Paul Glover, was proud of his team's achievement.

"The side fought against all adversity, for all players and all teams the conditions were terrible for blind football," said Paul.

"It became quite dangerous but for the players to battle through in the manner that they did and to retain the trophy was exceptional."

Assisted by coach and guide Rich Henderson, Paul was pleased with the mentality of his side.

"The grit and the determination of the lads to keep battling against the odds, when on paper we shouldn't have had the success that we had, has allowed us to come through and be successful in the end," he said.

England international Darren Harris notched a hat-trick in the final against RNC for Albion and, given the tough circumstances, was as surprised as the rest of his team that they succeeded for a second season.

"We were all in shock really that we won it," said Darren.

"I don't think we went into the tournament thinking that we had much of a chance.

"Things just came together, it was a real team effort.

"The weather was appalling, it was windy, it was wet, it was cold and we had a really tough schedule of fixtures as well.

"Football is a crazy game sometimes and someone was looking down on us I think!"

Added to his trio of goals, Darren also slotted home the decisive penalty in the shootout, ensuring the trophy was once again coming back to the West Midlands.

"I think it's the biggest victory that we've had," he said.

"None of our team are young but I think when you've got something to play for, somehow you get a little bit more out of your body I guess – I'm sure they will be really sore today!"

Attention now turns to The FA Disability Cup Final on Sunday, June 16 at St George's Park as Albion take on Merseyside Blind for the final honour of the season up for grabs.

For more information regarding the Foundation's blind football work or if you want to back the Baggies in the cup, please email paul.glover@albionfoundation.co.uk.

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