PSV Eindhoven started their Eredivisie campaign with a 3-1 victory over new boys Willem II in Tilburg.
- By Michael Bell
- Follow Michael on Twitter
After only seven minutes PSV had the lead when Willem II goalkeeper Kostas Lamrou raced out of his box in an attempt to clear, but Jurgen Locadia intercepted the ball, and fired into the empty net.
Two minutes later it was 2-0 with Memphis Depay running at the defence before sending a low effort into the bottom corner past a wrong footed Lamprou.
PSV were threatening to go rampant, but Willem II got themselves back into the match five minutes before the break as striker Bruno Andrade swiveled in the area before firing past Jeroen Zoet from close range.
The goal rejuvenated Willem II and they went looking for the equaliser after the break, but Wuytens could only head straight at Zoet from five yards out, while Ali Messaoud sent a free-kick just over the bar.
All chances of a comeback from the home side were ended with fifteen minutes to go when Lamprou was shown a red card for bringing down Georginio Wijnaldum in the box, and Depay slotted the penalty home to make it 3-1.
Despite the defeat it was a courageous performance by Willem II, and if it wasn’t for Wuytens miss the match could have been much different. PSV get their title challenge off to a good start, and move up to 3rd place after the first round of matches.
Follow
Follow @Footballoranje_ on Twitter
