Pro Touch SA SEND Prospects, who won 6-2 against Run DMG at Market Road as they returned to action

THE importance that grassroots sport has on physical and mental health was “clear for all to see” on Sunday during a goalfest at the artificial football pitches in Market Road, Islington.

Two teams representing Pro Touch SA played their first friendlies following the lockdown. And the magnitude of the moment wasn’t lost on the talented players, who all have special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).

Hotshots Bradley Hearse and Justin Charles led the way with four goals each as Pro Touch SA SEND Elite returned to action with a blistering 16-0 win over Camden All Stars.

Pro Touch SA SEND Elite, who won their first game back after lockdown 16-0 against Camden All Stars

Elite coach, Paul Davis, revealed that during lockdown his players have kept in touch with one another to offer extra support during what has been “a difficult and testing time”.

He added: “In these challenging times we are still putting the unity in community and supporting each other and standing strong on and off the pitch.”

Kitted out in their eye-catching red kit, Pro Touch SA SEND Prospects also celebrated a convincing win as they beat Run DMG 6-2.
Michele Guarinon and Keyland Cox both grabbed two goals each, while Nathan Best and Christian McDonald were also on target.

“It was an amazing feeling to return to playing football again,” said Prospects coach Zak Osman. “It was a privilege to see all of the players have a smile on their faces again.”