Dutch learn from Canadian losses

The Netherlands suffered two defeats by Canada in their friendly tour this week, but Dutch coach Vera Pauw was pleased with the experience her improving squad gained on their visit to North America, where the games were shown live on regional television.

Late winner
In the first match in Vancouver on Wednesday, Canada - semi-finalists in the 2003 FIFA Women's World Cup - secured a 1-0 win. The home nation had the better of the play, although Shirley Smith came close for the Netherlands in the 19th minute when she forced a save from Karina LeBlanc. It seemed that the Dutch would secure a draw until with five minutes left Andrea Neil headed in following a Rhian Wilkinson corner.

Hooper double
Three days later both teams met again in Victoria, and this time Canada prevailed 3-1. This time Canada’s three-strong forward line of Christine Sinclair, Charmaine Hooper and Rhian Wilkinson were threatening from the start, and within seconds Sophie Schmidt made Dutch goalkeeper Marleen Wissink save. Canada took the lead in the fourth minute through Hooper after she intercepted a clearance, but four minutes later Smith equalised after Gilanne Louwars broke from deep and crossed from the right. Within two minutes Hooper had struck her 67th international goal, turning the ball in after Neil had headed on Wilkinson's corner. The Dutch settled after this, but Canada secured victory 19 minutes from time as Sophie Schmidt headed in Brittany Timko's lofted free-kick.

Learning curve
Pauw, whose team had held China 0-0 before flying west, said: "This has a lot of value. To reach the top you sometimes need setbacks. It helps them complete their learning experience." Her team resume their World Cup qualifying Group 5 campaign three points behind England on 25 March with a trip to Hungary.