Feyenoord had to make do with a point against Sparta Rotterdam at De Kuip on Sunday. The hosts led at the break through Ridgeciano Haps, but conceded a second half penalty as the match ended 1-1.
The first half lacked the fire and brimstone expected of a Rotterdam derby, with chances far and few between. It was only in the final stages of the opening 45 that the game really got going. The best opportunity in that late rally fell to Ridgeciano Haps. Feyenoord moved the ball out to the left with some fine passing. Taking possession, Haps neutralised Jeffry Fortes with some fancy footwork, before netting with his right foot.
The lead was cancelled out within eight minutes of the second half. Referee Kevin Blom awarded a free kick but after VAR got involved he upgraded his decision to a spot kick. Lennart Thy stepped up to level.
The goal left the hosts winded and Dick Advocaat’s men found it difficult to get into a rhythm. The situation deteriorated even further ten minutes later when Leroy Fer was forced off with an injury. In a footrace he grabbed at his upper thigh and immediately gave the signal that he was unable to continue.
Feyenoord’s only real chance after that was a João Teixeira shot, with the visitor’s keeper Benjamin van Leer otherwise untroubled late on. The game ended without further scoring, the league leaders dropping two valuable home points.
(Feyenoord.com)
