Column Hugo Borst praises the penalty that kept Depay out and saved Summerville
In a vivid contrast between a missed chance and a fortunate avoidance, Column Hugo Borst noted that Depay was not on the pitch while Summerville was kept away from the penalty spot during the Serbia‑Netherlands friendly. The Dutch striker’s absence meant Mexx Meerdink stepped up to take the spot‑kick against Serbia.
Meerdink’s penalty under the historic arch
Mexx Meerdink prepared for his penalty in the stadium where the famed Panenka spot‑kick was first executed in 1976. The photograph accompanying the column bears the credit © Pim Ras / DPG Media, confirming the visual record of the moment.
When Meerdink struck the ball, he did so without a fanciful run‑up or a chipped finish – a straightforward, powerful shot that found the net. The column described the strike as a “good penalty” that delighted the radio studio audience.
Koeman‑style football and the match narrative
Hugo Borst recalled the first half as “Koeman‑football”, a description he repeated in the studio when Leonne Stentler echoed the phrase. After a sluggish start to the second half, the Dutch side displayed renewed spirit, attacking intent and created chances, according to Borst’s observations.
The commentator became distracted by the Serbian goalkeeper’s impressive beard, while the tempo remained low and shots from the bench were absent. Borst wondered whether Koeman himself was present on the sidelines.
Meerdink’s career was also examined: a talented forward hampered by injuries, previously kept on the bench by Troy Parrott, and overlooked for the under‑21 side by Michael Reiziger, who could have been a national team coach. Yet, with Xavi on the bench, Meerdink earned his selection via an indirect route.
In the second half, after an unnecessary own goal, the Netherlands pursued the winner, and the “Koeman‑football” transformed into a more forward‑driven display. Borst highlighted the emergence of a potential new number nine, contrasting the departure of Memphis Depay and the presence of Wout Weghorst, a “stormram”.
Meerdink, the son of former Dutch international Martijn, now boasts 21 caps and four goals, a modest record that Borst believes will be surpassed as he continues his international journey.