PSV were held scoreless in Eredivisie for the first time this season, which will raise the demand for Ricardo Pepi to start consistently
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PSV suffer second loss of the seasonHeld scoreless for first time this season in league playInconsistent role for Pepi continuesFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱ImagoWHAT HAPPENED?
Rising young U.S. international Malik Tillman played 90 minutes as PSV suffered just their second loss of the season to mid-table side SC Heerenveen in a 1-0 result. Ricardo Pepi also came on as a substitute while Mexico star and incoming San Diego FC designated player Hirving Lozano played 15 minutes.
PSV largely controlled the game, with 64 percent possession, but couldn't convert on their chances or stay in threatening positions. SC Heerenveen would take full advantage, as Ion Nicolaescu scored for the in the 73rd minute. It was all the hosts needed to steal three points from the league leaders in PSV.
The loss will undoubtedly continue to raise pressure on manager Peter Bosz to start Pepi. In the American's five starts, PSV have won all five games – scoring 22 goals and conceding just one. Pepi has 10 goals in 15 matches, dominating despite being largely in a super substitute role.
AdvertisementTHE BIGGER PICTURE
PSV still have a comfortable lead on top of Eredivisie…for now. They currently hold a seven-point advantage over second-placed Utrecht. But both Utrecht and Ajax have a game in hand. If the Cupfighters beat GoAheadEagles Sunday, it would cut the advantage to just four points. Considering how PSV started, winning all 10 of their opening games with a sizable lead on the table, the title race could open back up by the end of this matchweek.
ImagoDID YOU KNOW?
Tillman's playmaking isn't as strong as it was last year. The American attacking midfielder has taken large strides ahead in his finishing, especially in the Champions League where he has three goals in six appearances. Yet, in league action, he hasn't been as effective as he was last season in making plays for others.
He has just one assist on the season so far in Eredivisie. Last year, where PSV largely dominated the league, he had 10 assists. His expected assists, at this stage, is 3.7 — highlighting where he likely should be. There are a ton of factors behind assists, ranging from teammates finishing chances and opponents honing in on Tillman more, but it is still a factor to consider.
WHAT NEXT FOR PSV?
PSV will quickly return to action in the Dutch Cup Tuesday, where they will host third division side Koninklijke HFC.
