All posts by Will Burns

JONG ORANJE, UNDER-21 EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS

UNDER 21 EUROS: Dutch down the Germans with late Fer header

June 6, 2013 Will Burns Leave a comment

Netherlands 3 (Maher 24, Wijnaldum 38, Fer 90+2)

Germany 2 (Rudy 47P, Holtby 81)

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After coming back from two goals down, Germany were shocked by a late Leroy Fer header to let the Dutch steal a 3-2 win in a true game of two halves.

Leroy Fer power headers in the winning goal

The Jong Oranje dominated the first half with great possession football and dazzling flowing attacking passing. The Dutch immediately settled into control inside their own half, and pressed forward early on with the impressive Marco Van Ginkel heading just wide from a Ola John whipping cross.

Cor Pot’s men won corner after corner and looked like scoring everytime they ventured forward. The Germans had barely had a shot on goal when Adam Maher fired a shot through Bernd Leno to put the Netherlands in front on 28 minutes.

The AZ playmaker reacted quickest to meet a swiftly-taken corner and decided to try his luck from just inside the penalty area. Germany were caught napping as a central strike seemed to swerve in the air, deceiving Bernd Leno to bounce beyond the diving keeper into the net. Germany had just enjoyed their best spell of the match, but fall behind to their fierce rivals here in Israel.

Just before half time the Dutch doubled their advantage with a great individual goal from the guy who got twenty goals at PSV last season, Georginio Wijnaldum. The winger cut inside and beat two defenders through sheer pace and power to drive towards the penalty area. His powerful strike from 18 yards looked to have been parried by Leno, but his save could only divert the ball just over the line. It was deserved 2-0 lead given the Dutch dominance in the first period.

Just after the kick-off for the second half, the Germans received a lifeline. Already boosted by the arrival of attacking substitute Kevin Volland of Hoffenheim late in the first half, Germany won a penalty after a terrible mistake from Feyenoord’s Stefan de Vrij. Volland pressured De Vrij into losing the ball after the defender dwelt on the ball. Volland’s pass released Tottenham Hotspur man Lewis Holtby, who was fouled by the PSV goalkeeper Jeroen Zoet allowing Sebastian Rudy to slot home the resulting penalty.

It was now a chance for Germany to dominate and they nearly levelled soon after the goal with a tremendous chance for the powerhouse Volland. He was desperately unlucky not to get the equaliser as the Hoffenheim striker quickly took advantage of his new role to make a chance out of nothing. He hit a tremendous curling strike from 20 yards had Zoet beaten with ease, but the dipping drive came back off the woodwork before being cleared by a combination of Zoet and De Vrij. Holland were hanging as the match entered the final third, but Pot’s men let themselves down with some terrible defending on 82 minutes.

The German captain Holtby swept his way long the box, with De Vrij failing to cope with the Spurs midfielder and he smashed a shot past the helpless Zoet. De Vrij was doing himself no favours and Pot may change the defence with the next match against Russia in mind.

It was 2-2 and Germany were back on terms and deservedly so with their second half performance, but the goals were not finished.

Substitute Leroy Fer, whom replaced goalscorer Maher, glided into the penalty area late on to grab what proved to be the winning goal. The Germans thought they had escaped as Tony Jantschke blocked Luuk de Jong’s strong strike behind for a yet another corner. From Van Ginkel’s curling corner found Fer, who powerfully sent a header into the back of the net unmarked and under little pressure. With just over a minute of stoppage time left to play at that stage the goal proved to be decisive as the Dutch topped the table from the opening games of the group.

NETHERLANDS: Zoet, Van Rhijn, De Vrij, Martins Indi, Blind, Strootman, Maher (Fer 82), Van Ginkel, de Jong, John (Depay 82), Wijnaldum (Jozefzoon 68)

GERMANY: Leno, Jantschke, Thesker, Ginter, Sorg, Rudy, Rode (Polter 80), Holtby, Herrmann, Mlapa (Volland 39), Lasogga (Clemens 61)

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KNVB, NETHERLANDS, NEWS, ORANJE

NEWS: Van Gaal to step down after World Cup

June 1, 2013 Will Burns Leave a comment

On Friday, Dutch national team coach Louis van Gaal stated his intention to retire after next year’s World Cup in Brazil.

The ever revolving managers door must have the KNVB’s head spinning as they have to go back to drawing board and search for yet another successor. Van Gaal, 61, has grown tired of international management and the constraints it brings, but states that he misses club football.

This is Van Gaal’s second spell in charge of the Oranje after replacing Bert van Marwijk in May 2012, and he has coached Holland to top of their UEFA European World Cup qualification group ahead of the Brazil 2014 finals.

Van Gaal will end his second spell as Oranje coach in 2014

Speaking in a press conference ahead of his side’s summer trip to Asia: ”I took over as national coach with the ambition of going to a World Cup or a European Championship. It is something I have not achieved before and once I have achieved this I will leave.”.

“I am constantly having to borrow other coach’s players, and this is something I do not enjoy. I miss the opportunity working with players on a daily basis and at the end of the day I would like to return to this.”

Full retirement may well be on his agenda too when asked if a return to club football is in his future he replied: “Not unless a nice Premier League side comes along… If that happens, I will have to discuss it with my wife.”

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JONG ORANJE, UNDER-21 EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS

UNDER-21 EUROS: Jong Oranje Squad Preview

May 29, 2013 Will Burns Leave a comment

Here’s Will Burns with his preview of the Jong Oranje squad ready to travel to Israel for the UEFA Under-21 European Championships. Cor Pot’s side begin their campaign on June 6th against a formidable German side.

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GOALKEEPERS

16. Marco Bizot (FC Groningen)

Bizot will be the number two choice for coach Pot after cementing his place in goal for FC Groningen this past season since his transfer this last summer. A product of the Ajax academy, he has made five appearances so far for Jong Oranje.

23. Nick Marsman (Go Ahead Eagles)

After spending the last season loaned out to promotion winning Go Ahead Eagles where he was a permanent fixture. Will be third choice in the championships.

1. Jeroen Zoet (PSV Eindhoven)

First choice goalkeeper who spent the last two seasons on loan at RKC Waalwijk in which he made 67 appearances. He returns to parent club PSV ready to face off with Polish ‘keeper Przemyslaw Tyton in a fight for the number one shirt. At 6ft 3inches he is commanding in the penalty area and comes out for crosses well and always looks the favourite to get to the ball.

DEFENDERS

20. Patrick van Aanholt (Chelsea)

A strong and determined left-back recently on loan at Europa League qualifiers Vitesse Arnhem where he picked up one goal in 35 games. Unfortunately for Patrick, with Daley Blind and Bruno Martins Indi in the squad alongside him, he may not find any game time in this tournament, even though his performances in the Eredivisie this season merits it.

5. Daley Blind (Ajax)

A championship winner three years in a row, the 22-year-old has done well at the left-back position in the absence of Nicolai Boilesen since September 2011, and lately admitted in the press that he is becoming comfortable with his role. A sure starter for the tournament, a disclipined player collecting only one yellow card in 40 games in the 2012/13 season.

13. Mike van der Hoorn (FC Utrecht)

The huge 20-year-old central defender has no doubt a big future in the game. A pure powerhouse and a threat from set-pieces, I would not except Van der Hoorn to be still at Utrecht in the foreseeable future. Last month he was linked with Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal with PSV and Ajax also rumoured to be the looking at the imposing youngster. Surely a starter for Pot this summer, the teams playing the Jong Oranje will have to do something special to beat this monster. Van der Hoorn looks a formidable athlete possessing all the qualities needed in a centre-back – speed, strength, a great leap and tremendous positioning. Could be a standout star of the tournament, and with the build and strength we could see him fit right at home in the Premier League.

4. Bruno Martins Indi (Feyenoord)

Already a full-fledged Oranje international defender, the 6ft 1inch Martins Indi is one of the brightest prospects in Dutch football particularly in a position that the Dutch national side have failed to staff effectively in recent tournaments. Strong, fast and composed, he is versatile and can play in the centre of defence or at left-back. However in the left of defence is where his current Feyenoord coach Ronald Koeman sees his future. Great in the air, he is also adept in possession when playing out from the back. The one small flaw is that he needs to work on his defensive positioning, although with time on his side, I am sure this will improve in the future.

14. Bram Nuytinck (Anderlecht)

A veteran to the Jong Oranje side with a total of 21 appearances to date. Another strong central defender, who plys his trade in the Belgian league with Anderlecht, who paid €3m for him from NEC last summer.

2. Ricardo van Rhijn (Ajax)

Ajax’s first-choice right-back who has recently been watched by the scouts from Serie A giants AC Milan. Van Rhijn is naturally a centre-back, yet has looked great at right-back this past season. Contracted to the Dutch champions until 2015, he may look to extend his experience abroad after this upcoming season. Normally the starter for Pot’s team and a leader at the back, who always does well to organise in the penalty area.

3. Stefan de Vrij (Feyenoord)

Made some terrible mistakes towards the end of the season at Feyenoord and will look to bounce back with a strong showing in this tournament. Heavily linked with a transfer to Everton of the Premier League but that was before manager David Moyes moved onto Manchester United. Recently signed an extension to his contract to stay at De Kuip he looks to stay in Rotterdam for some time to come. An elegant player on the ball with a good sense of positioning and an excellent man-marker but sometimes can be overpowered by a big striker.

12. Kelvin Leerdam (Feyenoord)

Leerdam is another stalwart in the Pot’s Jong Oranje team with 21 appearances although time will tell if he can add to that tally with the talent that surrounds him in the squad. A right-back that can fit in at defensive midfielder if needed, but more likely to be a reserve for Van Rhijn.

MIDFIELDERS

6. Jordy Clasie (Feyenoord)

Although small in stature, this young battling midfielder has the heart of a lion. He controls the machine that is Feyenoord, and many have compared his style to Xavi and consequently gaining the nickname of ‘Dutch Xavi’. With tremendous vision, before receiving the ball, Clasie already thinks out his next move as he has the ability to boss any midfield. Leading the Eredivisie in interceptions, he can also prove to be a dangerous threat going forward, rarely losing possession and feeding strikers the killer ball. Like De Vrij, recently extended his contract at Feyenoord, thwarting any rumours he was ready to move to Italy with Fiorentina.

17. Leroy Fer (FC Twente)

Central midfielder signed for Twente last summer after being one of the many products of Feyenoord’s youth academy. In his time in Rotterdam he made well over 100 appearances where he scored 14 goals. Fer has a fearsome physical presence and dynamic box-to-box energy. The reason that Fer may spend most of his time in this upcoming competition on the bench is a testament to the squad that Cor Pot has at his disposal. Look for him to come on when the Dutch have a lead and need a protector in there, because he is the man for the job. A solid player who does the simple things well, with a back catalogue of quality goals and assists aplenty and a career average of a goal every five games.

18. Marco van Ginkel (Vitesse)

Van Ginkel is an adaptable midfielder talented enough to take on both defensive and offensive roles. At Vitesse last season he was often positioned as a defensive midfielder, but his desire leads him to surge forward and assist his attacking partners. He does this quite well, with already 17 goals in 87 appearances; van Ginkel has displayed an impressive feat for a midfielder. Even though still only 19 years old, the midfielder made his international debut on 9th November 2012 against Germany. Marco is a key example of the current midfielder with great pace, strength, and tremendous fitness levels. Due to leave Vitesse is the summer, another player that could end up at Frank de Boer’s Ajax.

10. Adam Maher (AZ)

Looking to move onto to either PSV or Ajax this summer, Maher could well be another superstar in the making. A deep-lying playmaker with great vision, silky dribbling, fast feet, pace, technique alongside with his creativity enables him to produce holes in the oppositions defence. Displayed a tremendous performance in the KNVB Beker final last month scoring a great goal helping AZ lift the cup against a lacklustre PSV. Depending where Pot plays him, he could be a dangerous player in the tournament. The team will benefit more from his precise passing and long-range shooting if played behind the striker, which would work well with Strootman and Clasie behind him.

8. Kevin Strootman (PSV)

What can say about Kevin Strootman? Already a regular in the full Oranje side, a dominator of games against any team he plays. Strong, determined, driven with great technique, he possesses all the physical attributes that you would want from a central midfielder. One thing Pot may be criticised for is if he decides to pigeonhole Strootman into a defensive midfielder role, as he has so much to offer going forward. Linked to Manchester United through last season, he can remind many at Old Trafford of a young Bryan Robson if purchased by the English champions. A future world-class player and maybe a key member in the success of this team and the future of the national side.

19. Tonny Vilhena (Feyenoord)

A quick left footed midfielder, Tonny Vilhena is very balanced in control of the ball with both attacking and defensive qualities. Although small in height, his strength and determination are often underestimated as he will battle for the ball with great drive. For a player aged just 18, he can read the game very well and uses this to his advantage often. A strong shot from his dynamite left boot may take a few goalkeepers unaware in the tournament if he gets to experience some pitch time.

15. Georginio Wijnaldum (PSV)

Skilful player who has enjoyed his last two years at PSV Eindhoven, finding the net 23 times in 65 games. Wijnaldum’s favourite position is the central playmaker role, where he often played in his youth career and where Pot likes to feature him. He was only on the pitch for four minutes when he scored against San Marino for the full Oranje side in a Euro 2012 qualifier. As an attacking midfielder, good movement is so important to your game and he offers that on and off the ball. Playing in the gap between the oppositions defence and midfield is a key role and for a 21 year old he has really shown he has a player for the future, the near future. Despite having great movement he is a player that is confident to run at players with the ball and isn’t scared of a challenge. Wijnaldum has the ability to terrify defenders with some very important centre forward runs which have resulted in goals. Another guy with a big future on the international stage.

STRIKERS

7. Florian Jozefzoon (RKC Waalwijk)

A wide striker that had a so-so time at RKC Waalwijk last season scoring just six goals from 33 starts. A product of Ajax youth system that was purchased by RKC last summer. Can be found on the right-wing turning full-backs inside out and a menace when cutting inside. Has the ability to finish well but may not see much time with such talent ahead of him.

22. Memphis Depay (PSV)

Speedy small winger Depay has tremendous ball control and constant thorn in the side of a defender. A great finisher, generally composed in the box and very good at helping the build up of play. A strong right foot has proven the PSV attacker an efficient crosser of the ball and good delivery from a free-kick. What has let him down is his attitude at times with past PSV managers Dick Advocaat and Fred Rutten questioning his commitment. Look for Depay to be a hit coming off the bench when the opposition’s defenders are tiring.

11. Ola John (Benfica)

Left footed forward who has enjoyed a great first season in Portugal for Benfica. An explosive striker who will prey on every ball that layed into him, you should find him sitting on the left wing on Pot’s teamsheet come the first game against the Germans on June 6th.

9. Luuk de Jong (Borussia Mönchengladbach)

A clinical finisher that demands the ball to be played through to him as soon as possible. Signing a five-year deal with Borussia Mönchengladbach last summer, his first season has not seen as many highlights as you would have expected. Scoring six times from nineteen appearances, injuries troubled him and he will look at this tournament as an attempt to bounce back and gain fitness for the season ahead. De Jong is more than comfortable on the ball, his movement without it, blessed with electric pace, is aided by instinctive understanding of his surroundings. He draws defenders out of position with clever jinking runs thus creating space for himself and teammates. He will be the focal point in Pot’s attack and if he can find the goalscoring touch he had at Twente he could lead the Dutch to glory.

21. Danny Hoesen (Ajax)

Former Fulham striker, Hoesen was a late call-up replacing the injured PSV striker Jurgen Locadia this past week. He previously scored on his only appearance for the Jong Oranje. A wide player who has progressed at Ajax this last season, scoring three goals from 11 games.

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KNVB, NEWS

NEWS: News Corp’s investment revealed

May 28, 2013 Will Burns Leave a comment

In December 2012, the Netherlands Competition Authority (NMa) granted Fox International Channels’ (FIC) an acquisition of a 51% stake in the Eredivisie Media and Marketing (EMM), the media and commercial arm of the country’s top league. Today, the amount of money that is to be shared out to all 18 teams was revealed.

The initial deal between EMM and the broadcast subsidiary of News Corporation was struck last August for a reported €1 billion. EMM owns media rights to the Eredivisie and controls the Eredivisie Live pay-per-view television channel. Fox will pay the €1 billion over the 12 years encompassing the 2013-14 to 2024-25 Dutch football seasons, with NMa board member Henk Don stating the deal guarantees a payment of €80 million a year to clubs in the Eredivisie through 2025. EMM was established in 2008 through a partnership between the Eredivisie clubs and media and production company Endemol.

The agreement saw Raymond van der Vliet, managing director of FIC in the Benelux region, join the management of EMM. Speaking in December he stated: “Together we will first examine the optimal exploitation of all possible media rights of Eredivisie clubs to give football fans an even better experience. We have a healthy ambition and will also explore the creation of an additional TV channel. We are looking forward to making a positive contribution to the exciting and attractive Eredivisie in the Netherlands.”

Now due to this new investment in the league, the Dutch media had wondered how this new wealth would be divided between the 18 clubs of the Dutch top flight. A decision was made by the investors that the money to shared out on average positions in the league for the last ten years. Whoever finished highest on average would be awarded the biggest fee. The chart below shows the figures for the upcoming 2013/14 season with champions Ajax receiving the most funds topping nearly €8 million.

Last seasons Eredivisie runners-up PSV Eindhoven are set to gain just over €7 million. Around €1.5 million is set to be received at the inexperienced newly promoted teams like Cambuur, Go Ahead Eagles and PEC Zwolle.

As you can see in the table below this deal seems to be a case of making the rich, richer and the poor, poorer.

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NEWS, TRANSFERS

NEWS: Twente sign young stopper

May 28, 2013 Will Burns Leave a comment

With the clumsy Sander Boschker in the dog house and first choice keeper Nikolai Mihaylov rumoured to be on his way, FC Twente have made their second signing of the summer a goalkeeper.

Sonny Stevens, 21 next month, has signed a four year deal with the Enschede club from Eerste Divisie side FC Volendam with an option to add another year.

The 6ft 4inch tall stopper made 42 appearances for Volendam since making his debut on 21st September 2010 in a KNVB Beker match at HVV Hollandia.

Since the departure of now FC Utrecht goalkeeper Robbin Ruiter from Volendam, Stevens became first choice. Volendam made a good go at promotion this year falling at the last hurdle in the playoffs against Go Ahead Eagles next week.

Current first choice, Bulgarian ‘keeper Mihaylov has been linked with Premier League side Fulham and with Boschker making disastrous mistakes as of late, Stevens may find himself receiving the number one shirt at Twente, sooner rather than later.

Twente’s first signing of the summer was Dutch youth international Kyle Ebecilio from Arsenal on a free transfer. Ebecilio, like Stevens, also signed a four year contract.

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EERSTE DIVISIE, EREDIVISIE, JUPILER LEAGUE

EREDIVISIE RELEGATION/PROMOTION PLAYOFF REPORT: 26th May 2013

May 27, 2013 Will Burns Leave a comment

Go Ahead Eagles of Deventer have soared into the top flight for the first time in seventeen long years.

Eagles had defeated FC Volendam 3-0 at home on Thursday but lost the return in Volendam 1-0 on Sunday afternoon, winning 3-1 on aggregate. The last time Go Ahead played in the highest league was in the 1995/1996 season when they finished bottom.

Roda JC have avoided relegation by scoring a last-minute winning goal against Henk Ten Cate’s Sparta Rotterdam. After the first match ended goalless Mario Bilate earned Sparta an early lead in Kerkrade on Sunday. However, Mark-Jan Fledderus equalized via a free-kick in the 73rd minute and also became match winner in the 90th minute through another free-kick: 2-1.

If Roda would have been relegated the southern province of Limburg would have been without representation in the Eredivisie for the first time in history, with VVV, MVV and Fortuna Sittard already playing on the second level.

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EREDIVISIE

EREDIVISIE EUROPA LEAGUE PLAYOFF REPORT: 26th May 2013

May 27, 2013 Will Burns Leave a comment

FC Utrecht 1 ( Duplan 46)

FC Twente 2 (Tadic 34, Chadli 36)

FC Utrecht win 3-2 on aggregate

Utrecht keeper Robin Ruiter is mobbed by celebrating fans

FC Utrecht survived a second-leg fightback to wrap up a 3-2 aggregate win over FC Twente and clinch a berth in UEFA Europa League competition next season

After defeating Twente 2-0 last week Utrecht were in pole position to take the European spot ahead of Sunday’s matrch.

But two wonder goals in two minutes gave Utrecht a fright as Twente looked to scrape through. Dusan Tadic on 34 minutes and Nacer Chadli (36) hit two long range beauties giving goalkeeper Robin Ruiter no chance of saving.

But Frenchman Edouard Duplan, also on target in midweek, hit the crucial goal a minute after the restart for Utrecht after hyet another howler from Twente goalie Sander Boschker. The goalkeepers mis-kicked clearance was failed to get under control from Felipe Gutierrez, Duplan robbed the Chilean and slotted home in the empty goal.

Utrecht’s prize is a place in the second qualifying round for next season’s UEFA Europa League.

HIGHLIGHTS

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FEATURE

FEATURE: ‘The Dutchman that took our hearts’

May 27, 2013 Will Burns Leave a comment

In October 2012, Edgar Davids shocked the footballing world joining English League Two side Barnet FC as player-manager, here’s Bees fan Josh Ilan’s account of the Dutch legend’s impression he has left on the club.

Under the tutelage of Mark Robson, we were absolutely dire. Twelve games into the season, and we were bottom of the table, having only garnered three points – and no wins. The football we played was dire, and our chances of survival almost non-existent. It was like we started on a points deduction, and paid faith to the adage men against boys.

There was a feeling of negativity and doom amongst the club. And then Edgar Davids joined.

It had been mooted previously, but this was cast-off as a ridiculous rumour. His arrival saw the club gain notoriety from all over the world. We were incredulous at how a former Holland captain – a man who had represent clubs at the highest levels of the game – would now be gracing the famous Underhill slope.

Davids’ reasons for joining the club were to help his local team, and to gain invaluable experience as a coach. His first official game in charge resulted in our first win of the season: this was the 4-0 win over Northampton Town, in which we played absolutely phenomenally.

We improved dramatically upon his arrival. Wins and draws went from once in a blue moon to a regular occasion. The defence tightened, the midfield became more coherent and the strike force more deadly. Feelings of excitement and cautious optimism became present, with Davids doing the impossible in turning us from relegation certainties to candidates; a scenario we could have only hoped for at the start of the season.

While we could not achieve the ‘Great Escape’, Davids’ reputation remains as strongly. A poll on the Barnet Forum saw 97% of people say how they wanted him to stay at the club, despite our relegation. If it was not for him, we would have been relegated months before, potentially as the worst ever League Two side.

And his decision to stay at the club means we have a bright future, and cause for optimism ahead of next season.

Under Davids, our style of play became more expansive. His style revolves around the cultures of the different countries he has played in. It can be seen as slightly defensive, with it being based around possession and playing out from the back. This is a style and philosophy to be admired.

He is also having an impact on the younger players, with him bringing academy players into the side to great effect. Elliott Johnson has become a regular under him, while Luke Gambin burst into the side towards the end of the season. In fact, the latter has been surprisingly linked with a move to Ajax, Davids’ stomping ground.

His managerial style sees him want to get the best out of his player. Davids may be strict, but this makes the players want to perform, both for themselves and their manager.

And this is a style which saw us improve so quickly. In fact, in the 36 games Davids was in charge, we picked up 48 points. This would have seen us finish 9th, had the season started upon his arrival. We would have been far closer to the play-offs than the relegation zone we ended up in.

Any other season and we would have survived. Our points tally of 51 was the highest from any side in League Two history to be relegated on. We were not relegated by a matter of points, but five goals.

As with any young manager learning his trade, Davids did make a few tactical errors before the end of the season. We became slightly more defensive, with a fear of losing becoming prevalent.

At times, we lacked a Plan B when our pretty passing style failed. This is something we will need to work on for the more physical and long-ball systems employed in the Conference.

He also played himself at times on the wing, to the detriment of the team. I feel that he was not good enough for League Two, a far cry of the player he once was, and that his best place would be managing the team from the side. However, he does add a sense of leadership on the pitch, which gives us renewed vigour – which does justify his selection in the team at centre-midfield.

One of the things I commend Davids for most is the way he has embraced the club, and its culture. He does not see himself as any better to the rest of the players, and respects us fans.

Davids made the news after he rescued 38 Barnet fans – including myself – after our coach collapsed when going home from a 3-2 loss to Accrington Stanley. At the service station we met him at, he was approachable, friendly and very down-to-earth.

After we lost 2-0 to Northampton Town, he issued a quote which could become an epithet for the season to come: “If you have to go to the Conference, you go to the Conference.” This indicates his humble nature, and how he is not fazed about the level he is playing at – with his love for the club being genuine.

I was lucky enough to be in one of his press conferences this season. The aura he gives off his extraordinary. His passion and vision for the club represents that of the fans and our chairman. He wants the best for us, and he is not using us for personal motives.

In an age where football is dominated by money, there are the odd exception who play for love – and not money. One is Edgar Davids.

As our chairman Tony Kleanthous said: “Once a Bee. Always a Bee!”

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EREDIVISIE

EREDIVISIE EUROPA LEAGUE PLAYOFF REPORT: 23rd May 2013

May 23, 2013 Will Burns Leave a comment

FC Twente 0

FC Utrecht 2 (Van der Gun 9, Duplan 59)

A clanger by Twente goalkeeper Sander Boschker gifted Utrecht a tremendous chance of Europa League football next season. Jan Wouters’ side take the two-legged tie home with a two goal advantage with Twente due to travel to Utrecht for the return leg on Sunday in the season climax.

Cedrick van der Gun celebrates his opening goal

The home side’s coach Alfred Schreuder was without first choice goalkeeper Nikolai Mikhailov and right full-back Roberto Rosales, but playmaker Nacer Chadli returned to the side. Jacob Mulenga was absent with an injury for Utrecht but his replacement Edouard Duplan played a leading role in the game.

Utrecht defended well and left the home team frustrated throughout the match, the team from Enschede lacked creativity and as the first half progressed it was looking worse for Schreuder’s men. They did not start the game well and found themselves a goal down inside ten minutes.

In the first chance of the game, Cedrick van der Gun scoring on nine minutes with a header losing marker Edson Braafheid from a Tommy Oar corner.

On the hour mark, Utrecht’s lead was doubled. Frenchman Duplan pressurised Twente’s veteran goalkeeper Boschker into an costly error. The 42-year-old rushed out of the goal to meet the ball after a Rasmus Bengtsson long ball, but the keeper miskicked and grazed the ball as Duplan was pressing. Duplan was left with an open goal and it was an opportunity not to be missed.

In the final phase, Schreuder brought young attackers into play with substituates Tim Hölscher and Felitciano Zschusschen looking for a goal. However, it was defender Braafheid who had the best chance late on, but his shot went wide.

Nana Asare will be unavailable for Utrecht in Sunday’s return leg as he received his second yellow card, defender Jan Wuytens is also suspended.

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EERSTE DIVISIE, EREDIVISIE, JUPILER LEAGUE

EREDIVISIE RELEGATION/PROMOTION PLAYOFF REPORT: 23rd May 2013

May 23, 2013 Will Burns Leave a comment

Go Ahead Eagles are flying towards the top flight as Roda and Sparta cancel each other out in tonight’s Eredivisie Relegation/Promotion playoffs.

Go Ahead Eagles 3 (Houtkoop 8, Antonia 70, Kolder 82)

FC Volendam o

Go Ahead Eagles have all but confirmed their next season in the Eredivisie with a emphatic 3-0 victory over fellow Jupiler League side FC Volendam this evening.

The hosts took the lead after eight minutes with a great individual display of the ruthless in-form Xander Houtkoop.

Go Ahead subsequently failed to build on the goal, with Volendam goalkeeper Sonny Stevens several times coming to his side’s rescue.

After the break, Volendam urged forward more often but the Eagles remained by far the most dangerous team. Again, Stevens kept his team in the match with some good saves until Jarchinio Antonia eventually breached the net. The game was finished off by Marnix Kolder with eight minutes remaning as Volendam were reduced to ten men with a second yellow card for Paul de Lange.

It is hard to see whether Erik ten Hag’s side can turn this around in Sunday’s return leg, on this performance it looks to be an impossible task.

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Sparta Rotterdam 0

Roda JC 0

Ruud Brood’s Roda JC cling onto survival by taking a 0-0 draw back home for Sunday’s second leg against Henk ten Cate’s Sparta Rotterdam.

Roda nearly grabbed the opening goal with Hungarian hitman Krisztián Németh missing early opportunities. But the best chance of the game fell to the Mark-Jan Fledderus after half an hour of play, his free kick got the best out of Spaerta’s German goalkeeper Nico Pellatz.

In the second half, the anxious Sparta found it hard to attack and in particular striker Donovan Deekman spurning some great chances to clinch the game for his team.

Roda’s top scorer Sanharib Malki was quiet until in the final stages placing his shots wide.

A poor game, which before the kick-off most were chomping at the bit at the thought of these two sides looking to entertain.

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KNVB, NETHERLANDS, ORANJE

NEWS: Van Gaal calls up new blood for Oranje

May 22, 2013 Will Burns Leave a comment

Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal has included four newcomers and recalled Everton’s veteran defender John Heitinga, when naming his 21-man squad on Wednesday afternoon. The Oranje travel to Asia for friendly internationals against Indonesia and China.

Oranje coach Louis van Gaal giving four newcomers a chance to make an impression for future squads

Van Gaal is without 12 regulars in his squad as they have been called up to the Dutch Under-21 squad to play in the UEFA Under-21 European Championships in June in Israel. Heracles Almelo midfielder Lerin Duarte, Feyenoord left-back Miquel Nelom, Swansea City defender Dwight Tiendalli and Utrecht midfielder Jens Toornstra have been selected as the Netherlands play Indonesia in Jakarta on June 7 before they travel to Beijing to face China four days later.

English Premier League club Swansea (managed by Michael Laudrup) have three players in the 21-man squad with goalkeeper Michel Vorm, midfielder Jonathan De Guzman (on-loan from Villarreal) and uncapped Tiendalli all been included.

Ajax reserve goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen, also uncapped is part of the squad as well. However, for Cillessen it was not his first call-up, because he also was part of the Dutch team which played internationals in Brazil and Uruguay in 2011. The Ajax goalie is replacing usual Dutch number one, Tim Krul of Newcastle United who is recovering from a dislocated shoulder. The injury is due to keep the Magpie’s ‘keeper out of action until September after his recent surgery to correct the problem.

The Dutch squad for the Asia trip is not the strongest possible, because the Dutch Football Association (the KNVB) preferred all eligible players to play at the European U21 Championships from June 5 to June 18 in Israel. Luuk de Jong, Jordy Clasie, Kevin Strootman, Stefan de Vrij, Bruno Martins Indi and Adam Maher are all part of the Under 21 set-up.

Van Gaal has called up experienced stars like captain Wesley Sneijder, Robin van Persie, Dirk Kuyt, Rafael van der Vaart and Arjen Robben for the trip to Asia.

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Full Netherlands Squad to play Indonesia and China

Goalkeepers: Jasper Cillessen (Ajax), Kenneth Vermeer (Ajax), Michel Vorm (Swansea City)

Defenders: John Heitinga (Everton), Daryl Janmaat (Feyenoord), Miquel Nelom(Feyenoord),Erik Pieters (PSV), Dwight Tiendalli (Swansea City), Ron Vlaar (AstonVilla)

Midfielders: Lerin Duarte (Heracles Almelo), Jonathan de Guzman (S wansea City), Siem de Jong (Ajax), Wesley Sneijder (Galatasaray), Jens Toornstra (FC Utrecht), Rafaelvan der Vaart (Hamburg)

Forwards: Dirk Kuyt (Fenerbahce), Jeremain Lens (PSV), Robin van Persie (Manchester United), Arjen Robben (Bayern Munich), Ruben Schaken (Feyenoord),Ricky van Wolfswinkel (Sporting Lisbon/Norwich City)

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EREDIVISIE, JUPILER LEAGUE

EREDIVISIE RELEGATION/PROMOTION PLAYOFF REPORT: 19th May 2013

May 20, 2013 Will Burns Leave a comment

Henk ten Cate’s Sparta are through to the playoff finals

The promotion race is heating up with the final four teams set for finals of the playoffs on Thursday and Sunday in two-legged affairs. Go Ahead Eagles face FC Volendam and Sparta Rotterdam play Eredivisie relegation threatened Roda JC.

In Sunday’s action, the surprise of the round was in venlo as VVV‘s fate was sealed as they are are now relegated to the second tier as they slumped to a 3-0 home defeat against Go Ahead Eagles.

The Eagles only finished sixth in the Jupiler League but could yet claim an unexpected place in the Eredivisie. The goals scored by Jarchinio Antonia (14), Quincy Promes (81) and Marnix Kolder (89) seeing them to a huge 4-0 aggregate win.

Roda JC, who found themselves alongside VVV in the relegation play-off zone, have avoided relegation (so far) as they emphatically smashed De Graafschap 6-1 for a 7-2 aggregate win.

Jordan Garcia-Calvete fired De Graafschap ahead to give the team from the second tier the aggregate lead, but it was one-way traffic after that, with a brace by the consistent Sanharib Malki and on-loan striker Frank Demouge effort putting Roda 3-1 up at half-time. Malki completed his hat-trick two minutes after the restart, while Mitchell Donald’s two goals

Eerste Divisie runners-up FC Volendam won 4-1 over MVV on aggregate with a 3-1 win on Sunday. Top scorer Michiel Kramer (44), Ludcinio Marengo (80) and Robert Muhren (90) notching for Volendam as Mark Veldmate hit MVV’s consolation.

Jupiler League’s third place side Sparta Rotterdam are also through after drawing 1-1 with Helmond Sport for a 5-3 aggregate win. Toni Varela put Sparta ahead 55 minutes before Emrullah Guvenc levelled late on.

The finals of the playoffs begin on Thursday so join us then and over the weekend for full coverage here at Total Dutch Football.

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