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PSV are not masters of their own fate any longer, after their dreams to claim their sixth title in eight years were cruelly shattered at the Galgenwaard Stadium in Utrecht. PSV have dropped to third in the standings, following a 1-1 draw by FC Utrecht on Sunday afternoon in the penultimate round of the 2006-2007 campaign. They have collected 72 points, just as many as top-of-the table AZ and second-placed Ajax, but their competitors have a superior goal difference. AZ have a plus 53 goal difference, Ajax 47 and PSV 46.
PSV seemed to have taken a major hurdle in their bid to retain the Eredivisie title, when disaster struck at The Galgenwaard Stadium in Utrecht. The hosts leveled the score five minutes from time in a dramatic finish. PSV entertain Vitesse next Sunday, while AZ, who travel to SC Excelsior, have the best chance of winning the championship. Ajax visit Willem II and PSV can only clinch the title, if they pull off a win themselves and both AZ and Ajax drop costly points.
With the return of centre half Alex, PSV head coach Ronald Koeman could field his strongest team. The first chance of the game fell to the visitors, but the Ecuadorian midfielder Edison Mendez blazed his effort over the bar. Ronald Koeman’s team took the lead on eleven minutes. Koné skipped past Cornelisse and delivered a pin-point cross onto Afellay, who created some space before sweeping home a well-placed shot from the edge of the penalty box. PSV created some chances after their early bright start. Afellay had PSV’s opportunity, but sent his shot wide of the goal. On the stroke of half time Koné fired on goal only to see his shot strike the crossbar. FC Utrecht struggled to create any meaningful chances in the first forty-five minutes.
Soon after the break PSV had a chance to double their advantage, but Farfán shot across the goal. Koné, Simons and Afellay all had opportunities to put the result beyond, but did not find the target. Zeefuik left the bench to replace Farfán 21minutes from time. Soon afterwards Koné started a fine solo run, but wasted a great chance to wrap up the game. Four minutes later Koeman made a second substitution. Alex, who had put in a fine display on his comeback, was taken off and Salcido took his place at the heart of defence. PSV had already survived two scares with FC Utrecht moving many players forward, when the inevitable happened five minutes from time. FC Utrecht won a corner and Alje Schut headed home the shock 1-1 equaliser. Substitute Kluivert and Afellay got chances to restore the damage, but it was not to be. PSV are no longer masters of their own fate, ahead of the last match day of the campaign.