Huysegems helps out Alkmaar

By Berend Scholten at Alkmaarderhout

Stein Huysegems scored twice as AZ Alkmaar followed up their superb 4-1 Eredivisie win over Feyenoord on Sunday by defeating AJ Auxerre in Group F of the UEFA Cup.

Early goal
The home side started strongly and scored with their first attack. Martijn Meerdink's cross from the right went over the head of Barry van Galen, but fell at the feet of Huysegems who fired past goalkeeper Fabien Cool from the edge of the area.

Huysegems again
The early goal lifted Alkmaar and Auxerre were struggling to cope with the home side's pace in attack. After 18 minutes the scoreline became 2-0 with Huysegems again on target with a superb individual effort. This time the Belgian striker picked the ball up on the left wing, ran past three defenders and drove a low shot into the corner of the net.

Alkmaar dominant
The start of the second half followed the same pattern as the first, with Alkmaar showing far more attacking prowess. A well-placed 20-metre lob from Van Galen in the 55th minute whistled just past the top left corner of the Auxerre goal, and the same player went close with a header soon after.

Timmer untroubled
Ivory Coast striker Bonaventure Kalou had a frustrating evening for Auxerre and his powerful forward play failed to create any chances. He was eventually replaced by Belgian forward Luigi Pieroni who failed to find the target with a long-range shot. Alkmaar goalkeeper Henk Timmer enjoyed a comfortable evening as the Dutch side began their Group F campaign with victory.

Amica next
Alkmaar are next away to KS Amica Wronki on 25 November, while Auxerre, who are yet to score after drawing 0-0 with Grazer AK on Matchday 1, are at home to the Polish side on 2 December.