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PSV saw two precious points slip away in the Eredivisie title race, as they were held to a 0-0 draw by N.E.C. in Nijmegen on Saturday night. Vergoossen's team had only two chances to break the deadlock. With three rounds of matches to go, PSV hold a five-point cushion over Ajax at the top of the standings, following their goalless draw at N.E.C. and Ajax's emphatic 4-2 win at sc Heerenveen. PSV are not likely to be crowned champions next weekend, when they play host to Heracles Almelo at the Philips Stadium on Sunday 6 April, while Ajax entertain lowly De Graafschap at the Amsterdam ArenA.
The 0-0 scoreline was a fair reflection of what had been going on. PSV were well-organised, but could not break down the N.E.C. defence. It turned out to be a disappointing evening for PSV who had expected a better result. PSV made one change to the team that beat FC Groningen last weekend. Mike Zonneveld started at left back, at the expense of Slobodan Rajkovic, who was dropped to the bench. N.E.C. produced most goal threat in the opening stages of the first half, with Lens and Bobson bringing out saves from Gomes. N.E.C. attempted to find an opening in the well-organised PSV defence, while the defending champions hoped to be successful with counter attacks started by Farfán, Afellay or Bakkal. PSV had their first chance to score the opening goal in the 25th minute when Jefferson Farfán set up Danny Koevermans who shot just wide of the target. PSV centre back Dirk Marcellis produced a commanding first-half performance in the heart of defence. He defended well and proved to be a convincing ball winner.
The match continued in much the same vein in the second half. N.E.C. put in a passionate display, whereas PSV defended and found it hard to cut into the N.E.C. penalty area. Méndez was brought on for Dzsudzsák on the hour mark and soon afterwards Lazovic replaced Koevermans. Gomes was the busier goalkeeper, as PSV in vain tried to break down the wall of defenders. With the clock ticking away, PSV failed to make an impact on the game. The visitors started a lethal counter attack in the closing stages, when Farfán picked out Bakkal, but the midfielder had his effort thwarted. At the other end, Gomes produced a fantastic save to earn his side one point.
