Willem II and PEC Zwolle played out a 1-1 draw in Tilburg on Friday, a result that sees the bottom club claim its third point of the Eredivisie season while PEC, under new management, extends its unbeaten run. The match, marked by a frantic opening, was settled early before both teams settled into a more cautious second half. For Willem II, the draw secures a third point in the Eredivisie, keeping them at the foot of the table. PEC Zwolle, which has 12 points from 12 games, stands 13th.
Early Goals Set the Tone
The game began at a blistering pace. Sydney van Hooijdonk put PEC Zwolle ahead within the first minute, scoring with a cleverly taken shot from a turn. However, Willem II responded immediately, with defender Hidde ter Avest equalizing just a minute later. The goal came after poor defending from PEC, allowing Ter Avest to shoot from the edge of the penalty area and find the net. This flurry of goals meant the score was 1-1 after just three minutes of play. In the 41st minute, Van Hooijdonk appealed for a penalty after being held in the box, but referee Allard Lindhout, after consulting the VAR, did not award one.
Second Half Chances
After the explosive start, the match became more subdued. In the second half, Willem II created the better opportunities. Forward Devin Haen had a chance to give his side the lead in the 56th minute, but his shot from the edge of the box went wide. Shortly after, substitute Jari Schuurman was presented with a big opportunity to make it 2-1, but PEC goalkeeper Jasper Schendelaar managed to push the ball just wide. For PEC, Younes Namli tried his luck from long range but his effort also went wide of the target. Vito van Crooij had a chance late in the game, but his shot from a tight angle was saved by Schendelaar.
Draw Leaves Willem II Bottom
The match concluded with the score remaining 1-1. For Willem II, the draw secures a third point in the Eredivisie, keeping them at the foot of the table. For PEC Zwolle, the result continues their recent improved form under new management, leaving them with 12 points from 12 games and currently in 13th place. Both teams will now look ahead to the upcoming international break. Willem II coach Jurgen Streppel made one change from the 7-0 loss at PSV, with Tonny Vilhena starting in midfield. PEC Zwolle also made a change, with Tijs Velthuis starting in place of the absent Simon Graves.
