National League campaign off to a flyer

Sussex Futsal in action during their 10-1 victory against LB Herts Futsal in their National League opener

The squad achieved an emphatic 10-1 victory against LB Herts Futsal at The Sport House in London on Sunday.

Club spokesman Graham Knight said: “It was an impressive display. We are confident we have the flair and the ability to score goals, but what was most impressive was our defensive shape and desire not to concede.”

Sussex led 3-0 at half time, and their superior technical ability and fitness levels enabled them to stretch their advantage during the second half.

The side was captained by former England international Jimmy Elford, and featured two players promoted from its successful youth academy in 17-year-old Wayne Giles and Jordan Astell, 16.

Giles, in fact, scored five of the goals with Elford bagging a brace and Danny Barrellie netting a hat-trick.

Knight added: “As a National League club, we are able to recommend players to train at England Centre of Excellences and the time is now right to recommend Wayne into the England set-up.”

Sussex Futsal: Smith (GK), Barrellie, Giles, Elford, Avann, Osunsami, Newman, Astell.

Sussex will play their first home game this Sunday at Eastbourne Sports Park (Sussex Downs College) against Braintree, kick-off 2.45pm. The squad will be bolstered by the return of England under-19 international Billy Pout.