Toivonen was PSV´s match-winner with a late goal

AZ keeper Sergio Romero comfortably gathers this cross.

First-half chances for PSV

Afellay and Bakkal returned to the starting line-up as PSV kicked off their final home game in 2009. The first chance fell to Pieters who hit the woodwork with a cross which landed on top of the bar in the 10th minute. The hosts had a decent shout for a penalty minutes later when Dzsudzsák was bundled over in the box by Moisander, but referee Vink waved play on. There was plenty of happening at the Philips Stadium as AZ striker Pellè failed to connect with a low cross. PSV enjoyed the bulk of first-half possession and were definitely the stronger side. Sergio Romero was by far the busier of the two goalkeepers and had to be alert to push Reis´s shot around the post. Engelaar sent an effort wide and Dzsudzsák saw his free kick saved by Romero. PSV were coming forward in waves for large parts of the first half but lacked precision in the final shot or pass. Afellay wasted a golden chance to put PSV ahead on the stroke of half time. Lazovic did not try his own luck but unselfishly singled out Afellay who blasted home from close range. Referee Vink showed Engelaar a yellow card for dissent and the Holland international will now miss next week’s game away against Roda JC.

Ola Toivonen scored the winning goal four minutes from time.

Ola Toivonen scored winning goal

The tempo was raised in the second half as PSV continued to push for a winning goal. AZ defended stubbornly and PSV coach Fred Rutten brought on Koevermans for Reis. PSV created a host of chances but struggled to make the breakthrough. The visitors were reduced to ten men twenty minutes from time, when El Hamdaoui was shown a second yellow card and sent off by referee Vink. Rutten made two more changes, bringing on Toivonen and Ooijer for Bakkal and Maza. PSV´s never-say-die attitude paid off in the 86th minute when AZ´s resistance was finally broken. Pieters delivered an inch-perfect cross and Toivonen´s delightful glancing header beat Romero as PSV earned themselves a valuable three points. Final score: 1-0.

Cards

Engelaar Pieters

Moisander Moreno El Hamdaoui