Heerenveen hold off Excelsior to climb into play-off spots | OneFootball

Match in Five Sentences: Heerenveen beat Excelsior 2-1 in the Eredivisie at Stadion Woudestein. Luuk Brouwers opened the scoring in the 38th minute with a left-footed finish after a fast break set up by Lasse Nordas. Joris Overeem doubled the lead (67.), before Noah Naujoks converted from the spot after a handball (74.). Excelsior had 21 attempts to Heerenveen's 10, but the visitors' defence stood firm with a glut of blocks and clearances. The result lifts Heerenveen from ninth to eighth and they host Telstar next, while Excelsior visit Feyenoord.

Player of the Match: Joris Overeem dictated midfield for Heerenveen, scored the decisive second and added six interceptions, four clearances and two shots on target in a tireless display.

Stat of the Match: Heerenveen registered 49 clearances, a rearguard number that underlines how they protected their advantage.

Three Things We Learned: Excelsior created 21 attempts and 26 crosses but found only five on target, highlighting a blunt edge. Heerenveen's rise from ninth to eighth keeps them in the qualification play-off picture, with 10 wins from 26 in the league. Noah Naujoks was the hosts' sharpest threat, producing three shots on target alongside his lone goal.