For AZ coach Pascal Jansen, the defeat against PEC Zwolle (2-1) two weeks ago has loosened up more than other defeats this season. The defeat threatens AZ to play-offs for placement for European football, something the club has been protected from for five years due to its favorable position in the ranking.
,,You can always lose,’ said Jansen this afternoon during the press moment for Saturday evening’s game against Heerenveen. “But it’s about how. Our attitude was not good and that is what made us so strong this season.”
Jansen delved into the numbers and found evidence for his statement. ,,PEC Zwolle won more personal duels in that game than we did. That’s typical of the game as far as I’m concerned. You have to win more duels than your opponent. That has to do with willingness and that is something you have under control.”
Jansen had two weeks to think about the necessary measures. “We asked ourselves whether things should be done differently. Changes in the setup, for example, that could be.”
Due to the defeat and a victory by FC Twente, AZ is again three points behind when it comes to fourth place. Jansen wants that back. ,,We can still get 15 points this season, so that should be achievable.”
Otherwise, play-offs will follow. Incidentally, an end of the season that the club has quite fond memories of. Five years ago, European football was secured and Calvin Stengs, for example, broke through against FC Groningen. “In any case, we take into account that the season may last longer for us. Also with regard to tax. We are not going to calculate now to avoid a few things in advance.”
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