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PSV got off to a winning start to the new season, after they comfortably cruised to a 3-1 win over N.E.C. Nijmegen in the Philips Stadium on Sunday afternoon, thanks to goals scored by Phillip Cocu, Alex and Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink.EfficientA few days ahead of the close of the summer transfer window, PSV head coach Ronald Koeman still does not know exactly what squad he will have at his disposal the next few months, but it did not prevent PSV from starting off the new season the same way they ended their last. PSV were efficient and N.E.C. were helplessly sent home empty-handed. All top Dutch top sides enjoyed victories this weekend, apart from Feyenoord, who suffered a 3-0 defeat, away against FC Groningen. Oscar MoensPSV started the game tentatively, but as time wore on they gradually dominated proceedings. N.E.C. had to without the services of Niedzielan, Pothuizen (who were both suspended) and Barreto, whose wife is due to deliver. Oscar Moens deputized as goalkeeper for Gomes, who sat out the second game of his two match suspension on Sunday afternoon. Moens pulled off two fine saves in the first fifteen minutes; he did particularly well by pushing away a Saïd Boutahar free kick. N.E.C. did not earn any more chances in the remaining part of the game and PSV took the initiative fifteen minutes from half time. Vennegoor of Hesselink, Alex and Salcido had already created opportunities, before PSV went ahead. Captain Cocu netted the first goal of the season by heading home a Farfán corner: 1-0. In first half added time Koné picked out Alex with a fine cross. The Brazilian international controlled the ball well and tapped home from close range; 2-0. Jan Vennegoor of HesselinkThe game was virtually wrapped up at half time. N.E.C’s hopes to pull off a shock result had been hugely dented and PSV were satisfied and controlled the game. On the hour mark Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink, who was left completely unmarked, simply headed home another Farfán corner at the far post; 3-0. N.E.C., coached by Mario Been, had thrown in the towel a long time ago. Arouna Koné and Jefferson Farfán created some dangerous moments, but PSV did not score any more goals. Aissati was brought on for Vennegoor of Hesselink and Roy Beerens came on to replace Koné. Youngster Beerens thought he had scored his first goal ever for PSV in an official game, but the assistant referee very controversially put up his flag for off-side. N.E.C. substitute Rutger Worm scored a consolation in the dying seconds, when he pounced on a rebound. So new PSV manager Ronald Koeman enjoyed a 3-1 win at his first league game in charge of PSV.
