Engelkes hails Dutch progress

Netherlands coach Ed Engelkes hailed his team's improvement after they recovered from losing their first match to qualify for the UEFA European Women's Under-19 Championship.

'Really excellent'
The Dutch side were beaten 2-1 by Hungary in their opening group game in Slovakia, but subsequent wins against the hosts and Italy took them through. "After the first match against Hungary, I felt absolutely desolate. We threw it away so easily," said Engelkes. "Against Slovakia I saw an improvement and we were excellent against the Italians."

Hungary result
A late goal from Dominique Vugts was enough to defeat Italy 1-0, but top spot in Group 3 was only confirmed when news filtered through that Hungary had failed to beat Slovakia. "We were eager not to get any information from the other match, as the result in that one could only help us if we won our game anyway," said Engelkes. After Italy were reduced to ten players by a red card, he introduced forwards Amber van der Heijde and Elise Tak from the bench. The positive approach worked as Vugts headed home five minutes from time.

Traditional soaking
As the celebrations went on, Engelkes reflected on a superb performance, although he declared himself less keen on the Dutch tradition of pushing the coach into the team bath after qualification is achieved. "When a match ends up like this, against good opponents such as Italy, then that is really wonderful. Now my only concern is not to get my suit wet!"