On a beautiful late summer's day with lovely sunshine, the competition started on September 4, 2010. The PSV D2 had to face UNA D1 in Veldhoven. Always exciting the first match of the competition. In the preparation it was sometimes good, and sometimes not so good.

Bastiaan had hammered last week on the importance of the TEAM. Cooperation was the motto, football had to be played with each other and for each other. Look at Madrid with their very expensive players and Barcelona (also nice players) who win because they play as a team.

With some tension waiting for the whistle of the ageing referee who kindly and resolutely lead the match excellently; and who by the way did not have a hard time because it was a very correct match.

In the beginning it seems to be a game for a while but it is soon Amar who manages to sign the 1-0 with a good individual action. And then it goes fast: it looks like the boys have really listened to Bastiaan (if only I could do that more often at home as well...); the ball is moving around very easily; positions are occupied in a disciplined way and the UNA boys are constantly chasing the facts. At halftime it is already 7-0. We enjoyed the game so much that the administration fell short; I believe the production was done by Robin, Amar and Justin (with sincere apologies to a goal scorer whom I have not mentioned here).

It was fine also thought the parents, and that may be a compliment because as we well know: parents are not easily satisfied. The midfield also ran wonderfully with special mention today for Baggio who now gets to play in midfield, and thrives there wonderfully.

What a luxury. The second half brings new sharp players into the field, which ensures that the sharpness and production is maintained. Baggio with a nice crowning touch and then Cody time three times including a beautiful marker, Robin with the 'weak' left leg nicely curled and also James with the final chord.

So it ends 0-13 and from PSV's point of view it was enjoying fine football. Technically it was particularly neat today, combined with beautiful team play. Sun on the head, what more could one want.

Report with thanks to Hans Bosma