VVV-Venlo - AZ
VVV-Venlo scored a point against reigning national champions AZ thanks to two sublime actions by sub Michael Uchebo: 3-3. The Nigerian’s assist and his goal helped the club to even up a 3-
The first half started with some provocative play by VVV-Venlo. After five minutes Achmed Ahahahoui challenged keeper Sergio Romero for the first time. The increasingly heavy snowfall prompted referee Dick van Egmond to swap the white ball for a higher visibility orange ball – to the enthusiasm of the crowd in a packed Seacon Stadion – De Koel - . This evoked memories of the legendary ‘snow games’ played at the end of the 1980s. Not that this meant anything to the technically skilled visitors. AZ’s first chance came from a free kick from captain Schaars, but his powerful ball was deflected by Kevin Begois. However, after 30 minutes AZ took the lead.
After first Ken Leemans and then Gonzalo Garcia tried to dent the AZ defences for VVV-Venlo, the visitors had more luck in scoring. Pontus Wernbloom read a deep pass perfectly and scored with the outer edge of his right foot: 0-1. Shortly following this goal, Sandro Calabro had to leave the pitch with an injury. The centre forward was replaced by Michael Uchebo.
In the second half the home team went in pursuit of an equaliser. Luck was on their side and a clever shot by Adil Auassar brought relief. VVV-Venlo tried to force a second goal and had the home crowd on their feet in support. AZ abruptly dashed their hopes by scoring twice in quick succession. The first gaol came from Simon Poulsen leading on from a fine piece of action by Moussa Dembele, then Mounir El Hamdaoui scored with a perfectly executed, soaring chip. VVV-Venlo seemed to be on the losing end, but regrouped to battle back bravely. Michael Uchebo’s solo action penetrated the AZ defences, leaving the field open for his pass to Schaken: 2-3. Fifteen minutes before full time the crowd erupted in joy when Michael Uchebo’s header was powered into the goal. In fine style VVV-Venlo treated their fans to a very well deserved draw against champions AZ.
For more photos of the match or to order: visit http://www.jacobsfotografie.nl/
Saturday 20 February 2010
VVV-
30.
Referee: Van Egmond.
Crowd attendance: 7.500. Yellow card: Simon Poulsen.
Squad VVV-Venlo: Kevin Begois; Ferry de Regt, Frank van Kouwen, Patrick Paauwe, Niels Fleuren; Ken Leemans, Gonzalo Garcia, (65. Kevin van Dessel) Adil Auassar; Ruben Schaken, Sandro Calabro (35. Michael Uchebo), Ahmed Ahahaoui (74. Diogo Viana).
Squad AZ: Sergio Romero; Kew Jaliens, Niklas Moisander, Héctor Moreno, Simon Poulsen; Rasmus Elm, Pontus Wernbloom, Stijn Schaars, Maarten Martens; Moussa Dembélé (79. Jeremain Lens), Mounir El Hamdaoui.
