Hirving Lozano's sensational strike ensured PSV defeated Vitesse 2-1 at the Philips Stadion on Saturday, to extend their lead at the top of the Eredivisie.
Philip Cocu's side came into the match with a five point lead over Ajax and, with the Amsterdam club not in action until Sunday (24th December), had the chance to inflict a psychological blow on their rivals. But that objective did not go to plan early on, as Vitesse took the lead just past the half hour.
Bryan Linssen darted forward with the ball before he clipped it into the path of Tim Matavz. The Slovenian tapped in his ninth league goal of the season after 32 minutes.
But the hosts found a way back into the match 11 minutes later. Lozano's free-kick was swung deep into the Vitesse box, and Daniel Schwaab ran in unmarked to head PSV level before half-time.
Lozano went from provider to goalscorer eight minutes after the restart. The Mexican will not strike many balls better as his 53rd minute rocket - his 11th Eredivisie goal since joining from Liga MX side Pachuca in July - flew past Vitesse goalkeeper Remko Pasveer.
It finished 2-1 - PSV are eight points clear of second-placed Ajax, who welcome Willem II on Sunday. They have won 15 of their 18 Eredivisie matches this term, while Vitesse are eighth after losing for the fifth time this campaign.
