PSV won 2-0 at Excelsior on Tuesday evening. The Eindhoven team recovered somewhat from their first competition defeat, last Saturday against NEC. Yet there was little conviction in the play of the Eredivisie leader. The form seems to be lacking, although with these three points they come one step closer to the national title.
PSV wanted to respond after the loss in Nijmegen (3-1). But anyone who expected a fierce and exasperated PSV was disappointed. Just like on Saturday, what the Eindhoven team showed was also very poor against Excelsior.
The low-flyer from Rotterdam seemed to be the ideal opponent to regain some form. Excelsior had not won since January 19 and can be found in sixteenth place. It was only after 30 minutes that the accompanying PSV supporters were able to bounce back for the first time. Joey Veerman’s header was cleared off the line. Ten minutes later, Luuk de Jong was able to give PSV the lead, but he failed face to face with goalkeeper Stijn van Gassel.
PSV was also not great in the second half. It was clearly searching. André Ramalho was close to the opening goal, but his header was cleverly saved by Van Gassel. A few minutes later it was Mauro Júnior who saved PSV. The Rotterdam goalkeeper had no answer to his hard shot from distance. Relief from everything and everyone who cares about PSV.
Form is missing
Shortly after the opening goal, Johan Bakayoko gave PSV a safe haven. He was the end station of a well-running attack and made the 0-2. PSV adds another three points and takes the next step towards the title. However, doubts will have increased in and around Eindhoven in the past four days. Despite winning on Tuesday evening, PSV had to work very hard against a team that is completely out of shape.
Saturday seems to be a crucial day in the battle for the national title. Then PSV receives a visit from AZ, which is in fourth place. It is the last top club against which PSV has to compete this season. If that match is lost, and that is not inconceivable given the game shown in Rotterdam, the pressure on the long unapproachable leader could increase.
It hasn’t gotten to that point yet, but it seems to be a fact that PSV is lacking form. It is mainly hoped that the season, which still lasts six rounds, will not last too long.
