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FC Groningen capture first ever Dutch Cup

Xinhua, May 4, 2015 Adjust font size:

FC Groningen beat PEC Zwolle 2-0 in the Dutch Cup final on Sunday in Rotterdam to grab their first ever "KNVB-beker".

After sensationally beating Ajax 5-1 in last year's final, PEC Zwolle hoped for a second consecutive cup success. Groningen aimed to win the first major trophy in their history.

Groningen striker Michael de Leeuw had an opportunity in the first minute on the match, but in the remainder of the first half both teams were not able to create major chances. Jody Lukoki came closest on behalf of Zwolle. His shot went wide.

The second half was more spectacular and PEC Zwolle became more dominant. However, Groningen opened the scoring in the 64th minute. Substitute Jarchinio Antonia delivered the cross from the right side, which was deflected by Bart van Hintum. Albert Rusnak received the ball and scored via Zwolle defender Joost Broerse.

Antonia also created the second goal 11 minutes later and once again Rusnak scored, this time without a lucky deflection. The Slovakian midfielder beat PEC Zwolle goalkeeper Warner Hahn with a convincing shot in the corner of the goal. PEC Zwolle were not able to bounce back from that blow.

Groningen lost the Dutch Cup final of 1989 4-1 to PSV and now captured their first major trophy in their second Dutch Cup final. The win also earned Groningen a berth in the Europa League next season. Endi