A resurgent Dutch side posted their intentions, as they moved to the top of Group 3, with a convincing 3-0 win away from home in Austria.

The Dutch, seeking to eradicate the memory of their failure to qualify for the World Cup, dominated a potentially difficult looking fixture, racing into a three goal lead before half-time.

Austrian coach Hans Krankl, could not find fault with his players performance.

“I cannot blame my players, maybe they showed too much respect, held back a bit, but realistically there wasn’t much they could do.”

“The Dutch deserved to win, they really are a class above.”

Austrian keeper Michael Baur was equally impressed with the Dutch performance.

“The Dutch gave us a clear indication of the way modern football should beplayed,” lamented Baur.

The Dutch were joined at the top of the group by an impressive Czech Republic. Goals from former Manchester United winger Karel Poborsky and in-form Liverpool star Milan Baros dispatching Belarus 2-0