While SV Hoofddorp was completely outclassed by JOS/Watergraafsmeer in the home game, the roles were completely reversed on Sunday afternoon in Amsterdam-Oost. Jorg Smeets’ formation recorded a good and deserved 2-3 victory over the title candidate. This victory brings Hoofddorp closer to within six points of the leader.
The match started rough. Both teams felt each other out, with JOS/Watergraafsmeer claiming most of the ball possession, but rarely becoming dangerous. Yet the home team took the lead halfway through the first half, against odds. After an easily given free kick, Jeremy de Graaf pushed the ball behind goalkeeper Halil Suzulmus: 1-0. JOS/Watergraafsmeer failed to deliver the final blow immediately afterwards when a great chance to make it 2-0 went unused.
Hoofddorp resilience
However, Hoofddorp was not deterred and took control. Led by star Junior Driessen, the hunt for the equalizer began. After half an hour it was a hit: Driessen served Stanley van den Assem with a splitting pass, which the captain cashed in coolly.
The visitors immediately pressed on. Even before the half-time signal, it was hit again. This time Van den Assem acted as declarant. He found Nigel Compter, who sublimely scored his twelfth goal of the season against the ropes. The teams went to the changing rooms with a 1-2 score.
Defensive block
After tea, JOS/Watergraafsmeer immediately tried to change course. The team from Amsterdam got out of the starting blocks brightly and Jeremy de Graaf was immediately close to the equalizer with a shot on the post. Despite a series of corner kicks, the Hoofddorp defense, led by the strong Kaj Wiersma and Brenden den Breeijen, remained upright effortlessly.
After more than an hour of play, the game seemed decided. Khalil Elmont sent Van den Assem away with a deep pass, after which the striker shot in his second of the afternoon with a defender at his back: 1-3.
Exciting final phase
Hoofddorp failed to finally close the match in the final phase. Elmont appeared face to face with the Amsterdam goalkeeper, but his effort disappeared on the wrong side of the post. That gave JOS/Watergraafsmeer hope, especially when Jeremy de Graaf scored the tying goal with the 2-3 in the 87th minute.
However, in a hectic final phase, Smeets’ team held firm. Thanks to the victory, Hoofddorp is cautiously looking at the top places again. The game against bottom-of-the-line DEM awaits next week, but the focus remains sharp. “There will be no question of underestimation,” says the victors’ camp firmly.
All results, standings and the program of the Fourth Division can be found here.
With thanks to Patrick van Harten
Photo: Football Archives in Haarlem
