The report

Mid-October and then playing football under summer conditions. That happened to PSV O15 this weekend when they took on AZ at their own Herdgang. A nice match beforehand, because AZ is one of the top youth academies. Nice challenge to continue the good result and play of last week (0-2 victory at ADO Den Haag).

In any case, the opening phase was like the weather: more than fine. After a foul on Jaivy Lourens, Sven Simons positioned himself behind the ball. His sensitively cut ball turned dangerously in where Yaël Gil y Muinos finally gave the final touch: 1-0. Despite the quick lead, it was AZ with the most ball possession. Particularly due to the emerging backs and fast strikers, the guests had a few opportunities. However, the Alkmaar players did not get any big, clear-cut chances. And when they did, goalkeeper Rick Jonkers was always there to prevent further disaster. PSV, meanwhile, was looking to extend their lead. After a good push by Lars Putters, Chahid el Allachi shot the ball just wide. After both teams had one more shot on goal, Rick was very alert when after a wrong pass the AZ striker suddenly appeared in the goal area. Courageously he threw himself on the ball for the incoming striker.

In the second half, AZ again had more ball possession. PSV defended well, however, so the guests had no major chances. The biggest chance came from a free kick on the edge of the penalty area. Once again Rick saved skilfully by turning the ball into a corner just under the bar. AZ went all or nothing in the final phase and that gave PSV more space in front. Because the Eindhoven players were sloppy with this, the game remained exciting until the last second. The referee allowed play to continue for a long time, so it remained exciting for a long time. Well into injury time, AZ suddenly had another big chance. The right back steamed up and shot into the short corner. But fortunately Rick was again well positioned and stopped the effort.

Thus, PSV won with difficulty from a good AZ. And again gave away few chances. The victory put PSV at the top of the standings. The goal is to be among the first six to qualify for the champions' pool after the winter break. After a few days off for the players, the O15 plays next week at Volendam.

Setup: Rick Jonkers; Livano Comencia, Luc Netten (c), Yaël Gil y Muinos, Koen Jansen (48' Julian Kuijpers); Lars Putters, Sven Simons (57' Milan Govaers), Chahid el Allachi; Iggy Houben, Jaivy Lourens (65' Shi-jon Martina), Ruben van Bommel (48'Jesper Uneken).

Yellow card: Luc Netten.