DUTCH ON-FORM AS WORLD CUP APPROACHES

The Netherlands proved that they are the on-form team for next month's World Cup in a four-nations tournament in Hamburg this weekend. Playing the host nation in the final match this afternoon, the Dutch beat the Germans 2-1 to make it a clean sweep of victories over the competition. Only the Spanish, who were soundly beaten by the Dutch on day one, will take any comfort from this weekend. After the first day's set-back they overcame the Germans 5-2, and then the team from Pakistan, 6-2. Most concern will be in the German camp, having conceded nine goals over the weekend for a reply of four. Final rankings: Netherlands; 9 pts (+7), Spain; 6 pts (+3), Pakistan; 3 points (-5), Germany 0 points (-5).