Despite playing most of the second half with ten men, Utrecht defeated Willem II 2-0 thanks to two late goals.
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Both clubs went into the game with the ambition of breaking into the top five with Willem II in sixth and Utrecht two places lower.
The teams were even from the start with Sander van de Streek and Simon Gustafson testing Timo Wellenreuther at one end, while at the other Che Nunnely was denied by Maarten Paes. The biggest chance of the half fell to Willem II but Sean Klaiber made a goalline clearance to deny Marios Vrousai.
In the 51st minute, Leon Guwara was late in a tackle on Freek Heerkens which was initially punished with a yellow card. However, VAR intercepted and Edwin van de Graaf eventually produced a red card.
Despite being down to ten men, Utrecht were the better side and Bart Ramselaar was unlucky to be denied by the post. Gyrano Kerk also missed two good chances for the hosts.
In the 87th minute, Willem Janssen headed Utrecht in front from a free-kick and deep into injury time, Kerk sealed the victory.
Utrecht rise to fifth with the win while Willem II drop down to eighth.
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