Classy Huntelaar proves Dutch hero

By Jukka Malm

Klaas Jan Huntelaar was the hero for Netherlands with two goals including a last-gasp winner to see off Finland and keep the Dutch in strong UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifying Group 1 contention.

Opening goal
The Netherlands kept control of the ball in the first half and opened the scoring after 32 minutes. Daniel de Ridder sent in a free-kick from 30 metres out and Huntelaar was first to react, heading in from close range.

Finland level
Finland had a good chance to level just before the break but Ville Lehtonen was unable to register from five metres out. However, straight after half-time, Lehtonen had his second opportunity and this time the big defender made no mistake, applying his head to Henri Scheweleff's corner.

Huntelaar winner
With the Czechs defeating F.Y.R. Macedonia elsewhere today, the Dutch needed victory and De Ridder came close as he was sent clear only to be denied by Finland goalkeeper Niki Maenpaä. However, Maenpaä's goal was breached again in added time when, just as for the first goal, Huntelaar rose to head a De Ridder free-kick past the custodian.

Armenia trip
Now second, behind the Czechs on goal difference having played a game more, the Dutch will fall back to third tomorrow should Romania defeat Armenia. The former Soviet republic is the destination for the Netherlands on 2 September while Finland will aim to escape last place when they go to F.Y.R. Macedonia on 16 August.