Rotterdam take first step towards national title in spectacular game

The Rotterdam team shot out of the starting blocks and barely allowed Amsterdam to catch their breath. Already within four minutes, Tjep Hoedemakers opened the score from a penalty corner. Not much later, Pepijn van der Heijden doubled the lead from the penalty spot: 0-2.

Amsterdam seemed to have woken up and fought their way back into the game via a hit penalty corner by Mustapha Cassiem, but Rotterdam struck again. Timme van der Heijden took advantage of sloppy defending to put the visitors back on level terms.

Wonderful goal by Van Bijnen
The reigning national champions refused to resign themselves to that deficit. Brent van Bijnen brought the Wagener Stadion to its feet with a magnificent backhand goal for the 2-3, after which the match continued to go up and down at a high pace. After half-time, Amsterdam had more ball possession and territorial superiority, but really big chances remained scarce. Rotterdam defended compactly and held firm.

As a result, Rotterdam starts Monday's return match at its own complex with a lead. The club is chasing its first national title since 2013 and holds the momentum after this exciting opening final.