AZ Alkmaar claimed a much-needed Eredivisie victory on Saturday by defeating Telstar 1-0. An early goal from Mexx Meerdink proved enough for the three points in a match AZ largely dominated.
The Alkmaar side took the lead after just nineteen minutes. Valdemar Byskov Andreasen set up Meerdink and the striker finished clinically. AZ then had ample opportunity to extend the scoreline but their finishing often let them down. Telstar goalkeeper R. Koeman was a key factor with seven saves.
The statistics underlined the home team's dominance. AZ enjoyed 62% possession, took seventeen shots with eight on target, while Telstar managed only three attempts. Coach L. Echteld's team maintained pressure throughout but a second goal proved elusive. Wouter Goes received a late yellow card.
This win solidifies AZ Alkmaar's hold on second place in the Eredivisie. The club now has sixteen points from six games, with five wins and one draw. Striker R. Daal is the current top scorer with four goals. The full standings are available online.
AZ's starting lineup featured De Busser in goal, a defence of Dijkstra, Goes, Schouten and Chávez, a midfield pairing of Koopmeiners and Kwakman, and an attacking line of Byskov, Stengs, Daal and striker Meerdink. Kees Smit replaced the injured Byskov at halftime. Later, Oufkir, Weslley and Hornkamp also came on.
A top-of-the-table clash awaits next. AZ Alkmaar travels to Rotterdam to face third-placed Feyenoord. Preparations for that key fixtures have already begun.
