Decisive figure carries AZ past Telstar | OneFootball

Mexx Meerdink decided it in the 19th minute with a composed left-footed finish, as AZ beat Telstar 1-0.

Meerdink timed his run into the centre of the box, took Valdemar Byskov's pass and guided the ball into the top left (19.). It was the game's clearest opening and he took it cleanly.

He stayed busy after the restart, first having a close-range effort smothered by Ronald Koeman (55.). Moments later he slipped in Ro Daal for a stinging strike that was tipped over (58.). He was withdrawn late on (71.).

The forward finished with two attempts on target from two, one key pass and four touches in the box, plus two high regains in the attacking third. A tidy, decisive display that set the tone.

With AZ controlling 61.9% possession, his movement between Telstar's centre-backs kept lanes open and ensured the leaders played in the right areas throughout.

AZ remain top of the Eredivisie with 19 points and visit Feyenoord next. Telstar sit 13th and host ADO Den Haag.