Winston happy with EMG draw

Ben Winston, Maccabi GB's Open Football manager, says that he is happy with the team's draw for the European Maccabi Games in Vienna.

Runners-up at the 2009 Maccabiah Games, GB will line up against Austria, Belgium, Switzerland and Mexico in a group of five.

The Netherlands, France, Holland and Hungary are in Group B. Holders Denmark are not sending a delegation.

Winston's squad are one of four seeds in the tournament. Austria, France and the Netherlands are also ranked.

Speaking shortly after the draw, Winston told JC Sport: "I'm happy with the draw but potentially it's harder as we're in a group of five. But there is no-one we genuinely wanted to avoid.

"The two games that stand out for me are Austria and Mexico. It will be exciting play against the home nation and a challenge, while the Mexicans are well-equipped and tough opposition.

"It's also interesting that we'll have the extra game which will make it tough and intense.

"If we're to win it have to play six games in nine days. We'll be well-prepared and looking forward to it.

The GB squad started training last week and Winston confirmed that they will step up their regime and have four sessions a week.

He said: "I think it'll be a fantastic tournament and a great experience."

Group A: GB, Austria, Belgium, Switzerland, Mexico

Group B: Netherlands, France, Holland, Hungary