Source: Xinhua
06-10-2008 10:54
Special Report: 2008 European ChampionshipsBERN, June 9 (Xinhua) -- Dirk Kuyt was quite satisfied with the Netherlands' 3-0 lopsided win in the first heavyweight of the Euro 2008 tournament in the Group of Death, calling it a "deserved victory" though admitting luck on their side.
"From the start, it was a tough match for us, because they are world champions and a very tough side, brilliant players. But we've given everything we've got and it's a great result," said the Liverpool striker, who was drafted in as a replacement for injured Arjen Robben and provided two assists to cap magnificent counterattacking goals.
"It's the first match and there are two tough ones to come," he added.
A controversial goal from Ruud Van Nistelrooy, who's suspected to have been offside, opened scoring for Marco van Basten's side.
"Yeah, I saw it from the beginning. We kept looking - 'where was the flag?' - but it didn't come, so we were really happy and lucky with the 1-0," Kuyt said.
"We showed by the second and the third goal that we deserved to win today," he added.
Even Van Nistelrooy couldn't seem to believe the goal had been allowed. The Real Madrid striker didn't celebrate the goal until the Swedish linesman confirmed it.
Kuyt assisted the second goal by Giovanni van Bronckhorst in the 31 minute as well as the third at 79.
"I think it (the second goal) was the best goal so far," declared Kuyt. "Great clearance from Gio, and he kept running. I was with him. Brilliant cross and Wesley Sneijder had a great finish."
With the victory, the Dutch topped the Group C, while Italy may have to beat France in seeking a qualification to the knockout stage.
Editor:Zhang Ning
