EINDHOVEN NETHERLANDS – Japan striker Mike Havenaar was on target Friday for his first goal in the Dutch first division, but his Vitesse Arnhem side came unraveled in a 3-1 defeat to PSV Eindhoven, who went top of the table.
Tim Matavz grabbed the first for PSV Eindhoven after 30 minutes, netting a rebound after keeper Piet Velthuizen parried a powerful drive by Zakaria Labyad, and Dries Mertens made it 2-0 with a fierce blast into the top corner.
Substitute Havenaar, playing in his second match since joining Vitesse from relegated Ventforet Kofu earlier this month, headed home from inside the area on a cross by Renato Ibarra six minutes from time.
“My opponent was only focused on the ball. It might have been lucky, but a goal is a goal,” said Havenaar. “I’ll be happy if I can continue to keep scoring like I am used to doing.”