Thanks to the competition leader, Telstar can play a role in the battle for promotion to the Premier League. Number 3 FC Groningen was waiting at home on Friday and next week it will have to travel to Tilburg to perhaps spoil the championship party of leader Willem II.
The way for Telstar players to put themselves prominently on the map with a view to next season! Tightened rules for Telstar supporters, purchasing a separate ticket in person at the counter, prevented half of Groningen from traveling to the IJmond. Now their support was limited to 350 nervous and very vocal fans. “Telstar has gained new impetus following the change of trainer and has a lot of speed up front,” Dick Lukkien noted in advance.
Brilliant start Telstar
Lukkien had predictive skills and was apprehensive because Telstar grabbed the guests by the throat and took a lead following 40 seconds (!) when Thomas Oude Kotte found someone other than Zakaria Eddahchouri and he pressed effectively from close range for the 14th time this season; 1-0. FC Groningen did not know where to look and was fortunate that Telstar might and should have taken a reassuring lead before half time. Characteristic is the number of shots on goal for Groningen before half time: 0!
Even following the restart, when FC Groningen pressed but came up with few clear-cut opportunities, it was Telstar that twice came close to 2-0. Zakaria Eddahchouri shot just wide from the turn, but the supreme moment came in minute 75 when two substitutes should have decided the attractive match in IJmuiden’s favor. Cain Seedorf found Mees Kaandorp, but his handling of the ball was such that a Groningen defender was only just able to block his effort.
Seven minutes of extra time kills Telstar
Referee Martens made adjustments with seven (!?) minutes of extra time, with enormous consequences. Because in 90+5 the ultimate deception for the White Lions. Thom van Bergen then saw an opportunity to put the ball into the goal. The stagnant Groningen legion woke up and almost went into ecstasy. Due to the draw, FC Groningen can be directly promoted next week if competitor Roda JC is defeated at home.
It was unfortunate for Telstar that an undeserved point share had to be conceded so late following a great game of football. “You were better if I’m honest,” stammered a tipsy, overjoyed and delirious Groninger with three beers in his hand followingwards in the packed sponsor room. Telstar showed its best side and may be able to keep the already promoted Tricolores from the championship next week in Tilburg. In the form and with the tireless efforts of Friday evening, not an insurmountable task. Who might have imagined that a few months ago?
Hans Akkerman
