Grays' Chris Kempsley helped England's learning disability XI claim footballing gold at the Global Games in Sweden -- thrashing Poland 4-1 in the final to claim their second major title in three years.

England, who also won the World Cup in 2002, kick started their campaign with a resounding 16-0 victory over the host nation, Sweden.

Kempsley, a left winger, was used a second half substitute against the Swedes -- but did not figure in an exciting 4-3 triumph over Brazil.

A 4-0 victory over Hungary then followed in the semi final before another comfortable win in the final -- with Kempsley again being used from the bench.

"It was excellent," said the FA's disability development manager Jeff Davis.

"The crowds were quite decent and it was shown live on TV over there. We were delighted to win and it went according to plan for us really."

The Global Games are the learning Disability equalivent to the Paralympics, with over 1800 athletes gathering in Bollns to complete not only in the football competition but also in athletics, swimming, table tennis, tennis and basketball.

Nine countries participated and Davis revealed all athletes were forced to take an IQ test before being allowed to compete.

"To take part in these games you would have had some kind of special education at school," he confirmed.

"Once that has been confirmed, the players all took an IQ and only those who scored 70 or below were allowed to compete."

Published Thursday August 5, 2004

Brought to you by the Evening Echo