The Team GB Open futsal squad continued their preparations for the 19th Maccabiah Games in Israel by claiming an impressive 9-6 victory over Loughborough University.
An 11-man squad features eight players under 22 years of age, with Motti Colman the most senior squad member at 30. He will be able to call on his experience playing for Tel Aviv in the Israeli National Futsal League.
The side also features two England internationals in Jon Kurrant, who has been capped by the Full National Team, and Russell Goldstein, who has played for the U21 side. Kurrant will also be the squad’s coach.
The man who will be looking to lead the side to a potential medal in Israel will be seasoned manager, Andy Landesberg, who recently guided London Maccabi Lions to JC Cyril Anekstein Cup success.
Speaking about the squad and the team’s expectations for the Games, Landesberg said: "This is a very tight-knit group of players and the spirit is fantastic.
"Jon Kurrant is a key member of this squad, not only for his playing ability, but his fantastic tactical knowledge in what is a very technical game.
"With the mix of players we have, we are very positive about the quality and experience within the group. Players including Max Kyte, Nick Landesberg, Charlie Rubin, Ricky Engleman and Liron Mannie all had a fantastic season at London Maccabi Lions, and Daniel Lipman and James Castle are both excellent Futsal keepers.
"We are all looking forward to the challenge that lies before us in Israel. The quality of the eastern European teams, as well as the excellent South Americans, means we have a mammoth task ahead. But this is a great bunch and you just never know.
"The boys have already expressed their excitement leading up to what will be a debut Maccabiah Games for many of them, and I feel delighted that they will be representing the cream of Jewish Futsal in the UK against other Jewish players from around the world. It really is an amazing opportunity."
TEAM GB OPEN FUTSAL SQUAD (age in brackets)
Jon Kurrant (24)
Russell Goldstein (19)
Pablo Ostrick (22)
Motti Colman (30)
Daniel Lipman (19)
Nick Landesberg (19)
Charlie Rubin (19)
Max Kyte (20)
Liron Mannie (19)
Ricky Engleman (22)
James Castle (24)
Manager: Andy Landesberg
Coach: Jon Kurrant
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