In a thrilling encounter on April 1, 2025, RKC Waalwijk managed to secure a vital 2-2 draw against AZ Alkmaar in the 25th round of the Eredivisie. The match, held at the AFAS Stadion, saw the visitors take a surprising lead late in the game, only to concede an equalizer in the dying moments, leaving both teams with mixed emotions.
RKC Waalwijk's captain, Godfried Roemeratoe, expressed a blend of satisfaction and disappointment in the aftermath of the match. "Zonde dat we het hebben weggegeven," he lamented, acknowledging the team's effort but also recognizing the frustration of letting a lead slip away. He added, "Met een punt zijn we zeker tevreden nu. Op voorhand teken je voor een punt bij AZ," highlighting that a point against a formidable opponent like AZ is commendable.
Waalwijk's head coach, Henk Fraser, praised his team's resilience, noting, "Heel geniepig hadden er misschien nog drie ingezeten. Dat was zeker niet terecht geweest. We hebben er keihard voor geknokt. Ik kan alleen maar respect hebben voor de veerkracht van de ploeg." His comments reflect a deep appreciation for the hard work his players put in throughout the match, even as he expressed disappointment over conceding a late goal.
One of the standout players for Waalwijk was Michiel Kramer, who scored his first goal of the season during this match. The 36-year-old forward, who had been sidelined for months and recently had his contract terminated by the club, seized the opportunity to showcase his skills. "Voor mij is dit in ieder geval een kans om weer te laten zien wat ik kan. Je wil laten zien dat je waarde hebt en het geloof nog hebt om een resultaat te halen," Kramer stated, emphasizing his desire to prove his worth on the pitch.
Kramer’s goal came as a result of his determination to contribute to the team's performance. Fraser acknowledged the significance of Kramer's contribution, saying, "Ik denk dat de goal van Michiel een gevolg is van dat we in de wedstrijd kwamen. Michiel kan hele lastige goals er heel simpel uit laten zien. Dat is een kwaliteit." This praise underscores the impact Kramer had on the game, demonstrating his ability to change the dynamics when given the chance.
Despite the joy of scoring, Kramer couldn’t hide his disappointment about the late equalizer. "Het scoreverloop was wel voordelig voor ons, maar dan is het vooral teleurstellend dat je na die 1-2 al heel snel die 2-2 om de oren krijgt. Dat is gewoon vervelend, aan de andere kant is een resultaat bij AZ-uit al super. Daar hebben we keihard voor gewerkt," he reflected, providing insight into the emotional rollercoaster of the match.
The match began with Troy Parrott opening the scoring for AZ, a moment that Roemeratoe took responsibility for, acknowledging his part in the defensive lapse. "Het gebeurde allemaal heel snel. Ik had niet goed om me heen gekeken, dus ik neem daarin ook gewoon mijn verantwoordelijkheid. Ik moet de volgende keer beter scannen," he admitted, demonstrating the accountability that is often crucial in team sports.
As the match progressed, Waalwijk fought back, showcasing their determination and tactical prowess. The equalizer came from Kramer, who proved that experience and skill can shine through even in challenging circumstances. His return to the starting lineup was a significant moment for both him and the team, as Fraser noted the importance of having such a seasoned player on the field.
Looking ahead, Waalwijk will need to build on this performance as they continue their fight for survival in the Eredivisie. With their next matches approaching, maintaining the momentum and addressing the late-game lapses will be crucial. The team’s spirit and resilience, as highlighted by both Roemeratoe and Fraser, will be essential as they navigate the remainder of the season.
In conclusion, the draw against AZ not only reflects the competitive nature of the Eredivisie but also highlights the potential for RKC Waalwijk to continue improving. With players like Kramer stepping up and a determined coaching staff, the team has the tools necessary to make a significant impact in the coming weeks. As they prepare for their next challenges, the lessons learned from this match will undoubtedly serve as a foundation for their ongoing efforts.
