Dutch win on first visit to Lisbon
Netherlands overcame some impressive Portuguese defence to record a six-try 31-7 win in their first test match against Portugal.
Published by John Birch, February 24th, 2024
2 minute read
Netherlands overcame some impressive Portuguese defence to record a six-try 31-7 win in their first test match against Portugal.
The Dutch began strongly, and took just seven minutes to get on tp the scoreboard with Elisabeth Boot finding the gap in the Portuguese line. 0-7
However, Portugal soon began to show up some Dutch frailties. Quick thinking by scrumhalf Ana Santos won Portugal the ball from a Dutch scrum, and a few moments later Mariana Marques was ghosting through the Dutch line to score under the posts. 7-7.
The next twenty minutes were even, but the Dutch forwards gradually managed to take control, and on the half hour the Dutch went ahead again with a try from Esme Ligtvoet. 7-12.
Just before the break the Dutch pack again showed its power, with a catch and drive from 15m out resulting in a try for Anoushka Beukers. Half-time, and the Dutch lead 17-7.
The second half almost began as the first ended, and in the 47th minute but despite the Dutch mauling over the line, Portugal prevented them getting the ball down. However, five minutes later, and despite some more heroic Portuguese defence, the Dutch finally scored their four try through Nick Dix. 7-24
Most of the ply for the next twenty minutes took place at the home team’s end, but finally in the 69th minute Beukers finally broke through for a fifth Dutch try. 7-31 for what would be the final score.
