FRESH off their domestic league victory, the Royal National College for the Blind (RNC Hereford) has secured an historic double.

The Hereford students clinched the European Blind Football League (EBFL) title after dominant performances in round four of the competition held in Belgium at the end of April.

The team faced off against last year’s champions, Cécifoot Charleroi, on their home turf knowing that they were in pole position to take the crown.

 

In a thrilling display of skill and determination, RNC Hereford emerged victorious with a resounding 4-0 win.

 

The goal scorers for Hereford were Rainbow Mbuangi with a brace, while Roy Turnham and Eesa Amjid added a goal each.

 

The momentum continued later that day, with another impressive 3-0 victory against Bondy Cécifoot Club. Here, Amjid found the net twice, with Turnham adding another goal to his tally.

 

These back-to-back wins solidified RNC Hereford's position at the top of the league table with 24 points.

 

Their dominance is further emphasised by their incredible record – the Hereford side scored a staggering 35 goals throughout the tournament and did not conceded a single one, thanks to some stunning performances from goalkeepers Dylan Malpas and Owen Locke.

 

With just one round remaining, this achievement has officially declared them champions of the European Blind Football League.

 

Adam Bendall, head coach, said: “This is a phenomenal achievement for the entire squad. We were depleted in numbers in Charleroi and facing two tough games.

 

“But the players dug deep and their dedication and hard work has really paid off. We will be incredibly proud to collect the EBFL trophy in Paris and bring it back home to Hereford.’ 

 

The fifth and final round will be played on June 22, in Paris at Bondy Cécifoot Club, where RNC Hereford will be presented with the trophy.

 

This final round of matches presents an opportunity for the champions to showcase their talents once more and potentially add to their impressive goal tally.

 

RNC's trophy hunt isn't over yet either. They still have the FA Disability Cup, which will be televised live on TNT Sports from St George's Park on June 29 and 30.

Blind Football is a rapidly growing sport in the UK, with its own National League and cup competitions, often dominated by the RNC Hereford team. Outside of domestic competition there are very few chances to play against teams from overseas. 

Recognising the limited international opportunities outside of these national structures, the EBFL was established by Jean-Michel Bertinchamps of Charleroi, to provide a platform to share best practice, good sportsmanship, and most importantly, provide players with more opportunities to develop their skills.

There are six teams competing this season: ASDD Roma (Italy), Cécifoot Charleroi (Belgium), Borussia Dortmund (Germany), Pirsos Thessaloniki (Greece), Bondy Cécifoot Club (France) and RNC Hereford (England).