The South Africa men’s hockey team opened their two-match series against the Netherlands team in front of a packed Hartleyvale Stadium on Wednesday, but the home ground advantage played little part as the Dutch won 5-0.
The Dutch opened the scoring in the first quarter when Pepijn van der Heijden converted a penalty corner to give the visitors an early lead. South Africa responded with intent and earned a triple penalty corner opportunity of their own, but goalkeeper Derk Meijer stood firm.
The second quarter highlighted exactly why the Netherlands are reigning Olympic and Pro League champions, and among the favourites for the World Cup later this year. Slick, high tempo combinations saw Koen Bijen extend the lead before captain Thierry Brinkman added a third to make it 3-0. South Africa continued to create moments, including another penalty corner and a promising chance for Niel Raath, whose effort flew just over the crossbar.
The third quarter was South Africa’s strongest spell, with both teams cancelling each other out in an intense and physical contest. Cullin de Jager was impressive in goal for the hosts, producing a number of sharp interventions. At the other end, Jamie Seale went close before Kenton Melville went clean through on goal. His effort lifted over the bar, drawing a gasp from the Hartleyvale crowd.
Early in the fourth quarter, a moment of ill-discipline saw South Africa reduced to 10 men, and the Netherlands capitalised. Thijs van Dam produced a deft touch to make it 4-0. Koen Bijen then added his second in the closing moments to complete a 5-0 victory for the visitors.
The two sides meet again on Friday in the second and final match of the series.
