Soccer: Rising Kiwi star already a hit in Dutch league

The New Zealand under-20 international grabbed his opportunity with both hands. Photo / Thinkstock

Young Kiwi player Ryan Thomas has made a stunning professional debut for high-flying Dutch first division side PEC Zwolle.

The 19-year-old from Te Puke was named man of the match in his team's 4-0 win over amateur side Wilhelmina 08 in the Dutch Cup on Thursday and started in yesterday's league match against PSV Eindhoven.

Thomas got on the scoresheet and set up a second goal in his first game for the club which has stunned pundits by mixing it with the top sides. Even the staunchest PEC Zwolle fans had merely hoped to avoid the relegation battle but instead the provincial club won its first four games and is sixth on the table.

The Kiwi became an instant darling of fans and said it was a surreal experience to hear thousands chant his name during last week's match.

"We don't really get that in New Zealand," Thomas told the club's website. "The fans [here] are much more passionate."

Thomas earned himself a contract after a successful summer trial and injuries in the squad last week gave the Kiwi his first taste of European top-flight football.

The New Zealand under-20 international grabbed his opportunity with both hands. Thomas played 90 minutes yesterday and was substituted in injury time as his side hung onfor a 1-1 draw.

PEC coach Ron Jans is well known for giving young players a chance and for his attractive style of football and Thomas said it was the perfect club to start his professional career.

"We are playing really good football and everyone at the club is falling over themselves to help me," said Thomas who is still enjoying home-cooked meals with a host family in Zwolle.

Thomas follows in the footsteps of Fred de Jong and Ivan Vicelich who both had long careers in the Dutch Eredivisie.

Now he has made his professional debut, Thomas said his next goal is to represent his country at senior level and he will watch the play-offs against Mexico with special interest.

Thomas is a product of Ole academy run by former All White Declan Edge and the youngster made sure to give credit to the Porirua-based football school.

"I lived and trained with Declan for three years and I couldn't have asked for more," he said.