Head coach Peter Bosz and captain Luuk de Jong are focusing, after the defeat in the Topper, on second place. The coach argues that the gap with Ajax has become too big and that PSV must now look downward.
How do you analyze the match?
"It wasn't good enough today, especially in the first half. We didn't get the pressure right, didn't conquer the ball fast enough and when we did, we made the wrong choices. In the second half we had more of a grip, but still didn't create any chances. All in all, Ajax did better and deservedly won."
Does this fit the pattern after the winter break?
"Yes, but it's more complex than that. We didn't give away much, but the chances we did have went in. In the second half they didn't play any more football, but a long ball still resulted in a goal. We didn't defend that situation well."
Did you feel your team played with the knife between their teeth?
"Well, if you compare the selections, they have to have it more of that. We have to rely on football, but we didn't get there in the first half. They were able to play their game. In the second half it was different, but we didn't create much."
It seems like it was down to Joey and Guus, but it wasn't. We started playing differently. Boscagli started playing in front of Brobbey instead of next to him.
Will the season end like a night candle?
"Absolutely not, because second place is terribly important. It's not just about prestige, but also an awful lot of money."
Luuk de Jong
Are you yearning for the end of the season?
"No, absolutely not. I always want to play football and we still have the second spot to fight for. The title is out of sight now, but second place is vital."
What is your role as a routernier in such a period?
"The same as always. Keeping everyone on their toes. Like I said, we still have something to play for. We can't sit by."
How do you annalyze the past period?
"The decay after the winter break is too big. We were very confident for a long time. But after a few ticks we found it difficult to get out of it."