5-1 Not Enough

If only we had managed a victory in our last encounter with PSV, our form today would have clinched. Ajax scored early and often, with Suarez opening the scoring in the 4th minute. Suarez also tallied a few assists as Ajax led 3-0 at halftime. Two more goals, including Kenneth Perez’s second of the day, followed even as Heracles managed a consolation score. The match was never even interesting, except for a few brief moments after halftime when Heracles managed 3-1 and looked dangerous. But Ajax was not done.

By that time, the league title race was done, however. PSV looked threatened, and with the score knotted at nil-nil going in at halftime, Amsterdam was contemplating a joyous possibility. In the end, PSV managed a quick score immediately upon returning from the lockerroom. Vitesse’s hopes were dashed when a second yellow was awarded to Sebastien Sansoni. It remained 1-0, and PSV celebrated on the pitch at Arnheim.

There will be more that needs to be said, for the playoffs remain. Vermaelen did not play. At times, Stekelenburg was forced into some pretty dramatic saves. Vertonghen gives great effort, and he is obviously a skillful player. But he is no defender. He was good enough for Heracles, but playoff ties with Heerenveen and then either NAC Breda or FC Twente call for more. This weakness in the center of defense cost us a championship, but hopefully it won’t cost us another shot at the CL. But that is another post for another day. For now, we thank the squad for doing their part and for turning around what could have been a dreadful season.

Category: Team News

Tags: Team News

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