Press conference | 'Our data analysts are amazed, normally they run that distance in an entire race'

What did you think of the match, Peter?
"I am very satisfied. Not only did we win the top game, but we played well. Especially the whole first half was excellent. We grabbed them by the throat and didn't let go. Sometimes we wanted to play a little too fast forward, so we lost the ball, but because we put so much pressure, they delivered the ball right back. The second half was more balanced, especially because we had already used up so much energy in the first half."

How do you explain the difference between this match and past matches?
"You can only explain that by the attitude. It has everything to do with the absolute will to play as we did today. Take Noa as an example: at the end of the first half he works another ball away from his own sixteen. You need that kind of commitment in games like this."

What is the reason for that?
"When you see what the guys ran in the first half, you understand the difference. The data guys were really surprised. These were distances that are normally sprinted in a whole match. But if they can do that against Feyenoord, they should also be able to do that against sc Heerenveen. Actually, it shouldn't matter who the opponent is, but apparently it does."

How happy are you with Ivan Perišić?
"Very happy, but I was from the beginning. He is an incredible professional and perfectly two-legged; he doesn't care which foot he plays with. I do think the right side suits him better. There he plays more like a traditional outside player who hits crosses."

Maybe your competition? Last season Feyenoord could still challenge you quite nicely, but now it seems different.
"To be honest, I still rate Feyenoord the highest, even though they are not the closest. Ajax wins its matches more difficult. In any case, I'm happy with the lead we have, but we have to stay razor-sharp."