Eredivisie new boys Dordrecht were impressive last season in being promoted to the Eredivie, but how will they fare back in Netherlands top division.
- By Michael Bell
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Dordrecht led the Eerste Divisie for most of last season, before eventually coming second to Willem II, but after beating both VVV Venlo, and Sparta Rotterdam, the Sheep-Heads gained promotion through the play-offs. Its been a long time coming for Dordrecht, who last tasted Eredivisie action back in 1995, spending 19 seasons down in the 2nd division since. Coached by Ernie Brandts, Dordrecht will aim to establish themselves among the Eredivisie big boys.
Transfers:
Dordrecht have been active in the transfer market, but have had to rely on loan signings and free transfers to strengthen their squad. Number one goalkeeper Warner Hahn left for Feyenoord, but he has bee replaced by Filip Kurto, who signs from Roda JC, while midfielder Mart Lieder also comes in from RKC. Joris van Overeem, a young midfielder from AZ, joins on loan, as well as striker Rick ten Voorde, who is rented from Paderborn. Two of Dordrecht’s stars from last season, Giovanni Korte, and Sven de Wit, have both re-joined the club on loans from ADO Den Haag.
Pre-season:
Dordrecht have had a nightmare pre-season, losing 4-1 to Den Bosch, 3-0 to ADO Den Haag, and 2-1 to VVV Venlo, while they could only manage a 1-1 draw against Oss. Its not been ideal preparation for Brandts, who’s side begin their season away to Heerenveen next week.
Strongest Dordrecht XI: Kurto, Fortes, De Wit, Troost-Ekong, Peersman, Overeem, Meulen, Ojo, Lieder, Korte, Ten Voorde
Key Players:
Rick ten Voorde: The Dutch striker is back in Netherlands after an unsuccessful time in Germany with Paderborn, and the 23-year-old will lead the line for Dordrecht this season. Ten Voorde has not been prolific for any club so far in his career, with his haul of ten goals for RKC back in 2012 his most successful season to date. With Giovanni Korte, and Mart Lieder on either wing, the striker should get chances though, and if he can be among the goals, Dordrecht have a chance of staying up.
Funso Ojo: The Belgian midfielder is the captain of Dordrecht, and one of the most influential players in the side. The defensive midfielder joined Dordrecht last January, with the former PSV youngster impressing with his combative and determined play. The 22-year-old will be crucial if Dordrecht are to stay up
Youngster to watch:
Giovanni Korte: The 21-year-old was a star in the Eerste Divisie last season, with the winger going on to net 15 goals in 33 appearances for Dordrecht. ADO Den Haag have surprisingly allowed the youngster to return on loan to Dordrecht, and Korte will be hoping to make a big impression in the Eredivisie. A winger with fast feet, and an eye for goal, Korte could be one of the stars of the season.
Prediction:
Everything is pointing to Dordrecht struggling this season, they have an un-experienced and young squad, a strike force which doesn’t scream goals, a weak defence and their pre-season form has been woeful. The squad has talent in Ojo, and Korte, but i don’t think it will be enough to save them from the bottom three.
Prediction: Bottom three
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