Dutch delight in Doetinchem
Tuesday, October 12, 2004
Article summary
Netherlands 4-1 Finland The home side moved above Romania at the top of Group 1 with an impressive display.
Article body
The Netherlands moved to the top of UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifying Group 1 in fine style, defeating Finland 4-1 at the Vijverberg stadium in Doetinchem.
Slender advantage
The Dutch lead the section with seven points from three games, and moved a point above Romania thanks to their victory this evening. The home side took control either side of the half-hour, with Frank van Mosselveld heading in Daniel de Ridder's free-kick in the 28th minute and Mounir El Hamdaoui doubling the lead four minutes later after a fine run.
Late clinchers
In front of 5,300 spectators, Finland came back into the match eight minutes into the second half as Njazi Kugi halved the deficit. However, the Netherlands wrapped up the win in the final five minutes, with Klaas-Jan Huntelaar making the score 3-1 and Robin van Persie getting a fourth from the penalty spot.