Day one of Albion Blind's Bučovice Blind Football Cup tournament ended in frustration and pride in equal measure.
A goalless draw against Greek side Pirsos Thessaloniki got the day underway for Paul Glover's side, with both teams having opportunities to seal victory.
A hard-fought match in temperatures exceeding 25 degrees ensured a point apiece, with the highlight of the encounter coming from 13-year-old Eesa Amjid – the youngest player at the tournament – making his competitive debut for the Baggies.
Albion’s second match of the day came against FC St. Pauli von 1910 and it was a similar tale, a goalless stalemate, but it could have been a different story for Albion if it wasn’t for their number one, Dylan Malpas.
The shot-stopping efforts of the England international earned rave reviews pitchside from onlooking support as he continued to shutout numerous efforts from the Germans.
Glover’s team did have opportunities themselves through Darren Harris and Azeem Amir but both were unable to capitalise.
The third and final match of the day against hosts Avoy MU Brno completed a hat-trick of nil-nils for the tournament debutants.
Albion were unfortunate to not take all three points in a game they often controlled.
Chances for Harris, Amra and Amjid came and went, ensuring a day of sharing the spoils for the Throstles.
A trio of goalless draws may sound unspectacular, but on the contrary. Such a repetition of scorelines is a rarity in blind football and the debut of teenager Amjid ensured a memorable first day for the Albion side.
Austrian outfit ÖBSV Vienna and Brussels 5-a-side Anderlecht await the Baggies on Sunday, June 2 as they wrap up their inaugural appearance in the Czech contest.
Watch the above video to view the highlights from the Albion matches.
To learn more about blind football or if you are interested in being a part of Albion Blind, please email paul.glover@albionfoundation.co.uk.