The beginning of spring was a bit chilly. PSV D2 enter against direct rival Willem II to connect with this opponent. The match started with a surprising line-up of the D2. two men in the striker, a strong midfield and a usually familiar rearguard with Jorrit and Joep attacking. The battle was going to be fought in that midfield. An always fierce eb physically strong Willem II did not really come out on their own turf in the early stages. The offensive impulses clearly came from PSV. Yet it was Willem II who punished a small mistake by PSV in midfield midway through the 1st half. A "lucky" goal from the 16 high under the crossbar that goalkeeper Jeroen could do nothing about. It was a bit messy because Willem II did not really play football but used the long ball tactic. A strong striker and outside left had to solve the opponent's work. Due to a strong performance of the PSV defense, Willem II did not create any chances in the first half. Endy had a great chance just before half-time, a pass on the right and Endy on speed through the defense. Unfortunately for PSV, the goalkeeper stopped Endy's shot from the right. The second half also presented the same picture. PSV better in the build-up and Willem II with the same tactics. A wonderful cross from Aron to the on-rushing Rai landed just in the hands of the goalkeeper. This was the chance for the equalizer. It remained messy, and what should have been a topper on paper ended in a mediocre game with the win for Willem II. A very hard working PSV unfortunately failed to take sporting revenge on Willem II. With 5 games to go and 8 points behind Willem II, the championship seems decided in favor of the Tilburgers.
Boys, Trainers and Supervisors, Heads up, and to the next match.

Report with thanks to Peter van de Kerkhof