Only two current [Liverpool FC](https://liverpooloffside.sbnation.com) Women’s players are competing in this summer’s UEFA Women’s Euro tournament. Ceri Holland and Gemma Evans are part of the first Wales squad to compete in a major Women’s tournament. Unfortunately for Wales, they were drawn into an extremely difficult group.
Both Holland and Evans were handed starting roles in the opening match of group play on Saturday as Wales faced the Netherlands. Former [Liverpool](https://liverpooloffside.sbnation.com/) defender Razza Roberts also started for the Dragons.
Wales looked to frustrate the Netherlands with a solid defensive shape, and managed to keep the Dutch at bay through most of the first half. Vivianne Miedema found the back of the net in first half extra time. The Netherlands wasted little time doubling their lead, scoring just three minutes into the second half before icing the match with a third goal in the 57th minute. Wales struggled to generate their own offense, taking just five shots over the course of the match, with none on target. They also had a hard time gaining and keeping possession of the ball, with just 33% possession on the day.
Ceri Holland was forced off the pitch in the 79th minute with an injury, providing a worry to Liverpool and Wales supporters alike. After the match, Wales manager Rhian Wilkinson said that the Liverpool midfielder had a cramp rather than a muscle injury as initially feared.
It will not get any easier for Wales in the rest of Group D play. The Dragons will face an extremely talented France side on Wednesday before taking on the reigning European champions England on Sunday.