Debutant Davies delivers hat trick for England

Football in the Community Aviva Ability Counts Centre of Excellence player Ashley Davies was in scintillating international form as he struck a hat trick past Northern Ireland during the U19 Home International Championship for players with learning disabilities hosted at the Billy Neil Centre, Belfast.

Midfielder Davies first goal came after winning the ball on the edge of the area and unleashing a snapshot, which soared into the top corner of the goal. Davies doubled his tally five minutes later after winning the ball on the half way line and playing the ball out wide to George Simmons who combined with Royce Greenidge who set Davies up to duly oblige and finish the move with a rasping shot into the top corner.

Davies completed his hat trick when he successfully converted a penalty after the Northern Ireland goalkeeper was sent off for violent conduct. For his hat trick exploits and overall superb play Davies was awarded man of the match. England went on to demolish Northern Ireland 10 - 1 and become U19 Home International Champions.

National teams from England, Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland and Scotland competed for the U19 Home International Tournament for players with learning disabilities.

Ashley Davies said: "When I heard I had won a place in the England squad I was overwhelmed. It is one thing I never expected to be doing, it is a honour to represent my country".

Commenting on Ashley Davies success Laurence York FITC Disability development Officer said: "Ashley's attitude towards the Centre of Excellence has been outstanding, his work ethic and commitment serves a great example to the rest of the group. He is technically a very gifted player and has genuine potential to take his career further. We were over the moon with his England call up, his performance at the Home International Tournament has been the icing on the cake. I now want him to continue to work hard within the Centre of Excellence and hopefully become a regular in the England squad".