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Cosmos B Defeats NY Dutch Lions 3-0 in Exhibition Match

Former Cosmos Player Wim Rijsbergen Returns to New York as a Head Coach

Published Jun 16, 2017

The NY Dutch Lions visited MCU Park to play an exhibition match against the New York Cosmos B to kick off celebrations on Dutch Heritage Night. The Dutch roots in the New York area are far reachin, including the likes of legendary playmaker, Johan Cruyff, who trained with the Cosmos before signing with the LA Aztecs in 1979. Another connection between the Netherlands and the New York Cosmos is Wim Rijsgbergen, a long time Cosmos player and two-time World Cup runner up. Rijsbergen returned to his former club on the opposite sideline as the Head Coach for the Dutch Lions.

On a night that centered on the visiting Dutch Lions, the Cosmos B dictated terms on the field. The Cosmos opened the scoring in the first half thanks to a penalty converted by Coutinho in the 17th minute. The Cosmos B continued their pressure as the half wore on, but were unable to find a second goal and went into the break with a 1-0 lead.

The second half continued the same way the first half ended, as the Cosmos B wore down the Dutch defense, taking a commanding lead with goals from David Nigro and Lucas Mendes. The Lions had a few chances to respond, but were unable to find a consolation goal.

Although the match ended in a 3-0 defeat, NY Dutch Lions Coach and former Cosmos player, Wim Rijsbergen, was in good spirits after the match.

“We are happy we did not receive any injuries and had at least three or four opportunities to score a goal. It is wonderful to be back. I have a lot of friends over here. I was a part of the history of the Cosmos and tried to build up soccer in the area," said Rijsbergen. "It is good to be back and I am glad that you see a lot of people around the club, especially young guys playing for the Cosmos.”

The Cosmos B secured the victory on a night that featured a blend of New York Cosmos and Dutch history. The game was a memorable way to kick start a night celebrating of Dutch Heritage at MCU Park.