Hiddink rues PSV's poor start

For the sixth time in a row PSV Eindhoven failed to qualify for the next round of the UEFA Champions League, even after a 3-0 victory over nine-man AJ Auxerre in Group A tonight in Eindhoven.
 
PSV in charge
Despite his side's elimination, which was confirmed by BV Borussia Dortmund's 2-1 win against Arsenal FC, PSV coach Guus Hiddink was pleased with the way his team played. Even when the French side had a full complement of players, the home side kept them at bay and seized control following the first-half dismissal of Auxerre defender Philippe Mexes.

'Total control'
"We kept using the flanks and created some good chances," said Hiddink. "The first goal was well worked, and from that moment we totally controlled the match. In defence we stayed focused on recovering the ball."

'We were not smart'
The former coach of the Korean Republic was satisfied with tonight's result, adding: "We didn't achieve our goal, but only because we failed to play it smart during our previous two home matches. I believe we learned that when you're not capable of winning a match you have to be satisfied with a draw. Personal mistakes made the difference then. Tonight we proved that we can control a match and win it."

Roux rues dismissals
Mexes was the first Auxerre player dismissed, as he was shown the red card in the 26th minute having received two cautions in four minutes. Auxerre coach Guy Roux questioned Mexes' first caution, but accepted that the referee had no choice but to send his player off following his second foul. Early in the second half striker Olivier Kapo joined his team-mate as an early departee, as he was sent off after catching PSV's Kevin Hofland on the cheek with his elbow.

Must-win game
Auxerre must win when they are at home to Dortmund in a fortnight's time in order to keep their chance of qualifying for the third round of the UEFA cup alive. Roux was not overly optimistic about his side’s chances in that game, especially as his side will be without two of their most influential players in Mexes and Kapo.

'We have to beat Dortmund'
"Dortmund have eliminated us twice in the past, but every match is different. Last week we beat Arsenal in London and now we lose to PSV. Against Dortmund we have to prove that we are capable to beat them, and then we must hope that Arsenal do their duty," said the French coach.

Hiddink hopeful
In contrast, Hiddink was optimistic of his side’s chances in their final group game. The Dutch coach takes his side to Highbury needing a win to guarantee their UEFA Cup spot, but the way PSV performed tonight fills him with confidence for the visit to the English champions.

Strong defending
Hiddink was particularly happy with his side's defending against Auxerre, saying: "If we organise our defence like we did today I'm sure that it is possible to get a good result [against Arsenal]. Creating chances has never been our problem, but tonight we also proved that we can score."