PSV Reserves vs NEC Nijmegen Predictions

A nine match unbeaten streak earlier this year moved NEC back into contention for a Play-off spot, however they now appear to have blown their chances, after last week’s 4-0 thumping at Jong AZ made it three consecutive defeats for the Nijmegen outfit.  Manager Jack De Gier was dismissed forthwith after their shambolic display in Alkmaar, and it’s now up to Caretaker boss Ron de Groot to pick up the pieces for the remaining six games of the regular season.

It’s fair to say that NEC’s hopes of reaching the top nine look slim at best – they are now down to 15^th in the Eerste Divisie standings and have a seven point deficit to make up on the Play-off places, with just 18 points up for grabs between now and the end of the campaign.

They more or less need to win every match from here to force their way in, and that looks an insurmountable task, based on their woeful recent form and the fixtures they have upcoming, which include a home clash with champion elect Twente and this Monday’s encounter against 5^th placed Jong PSV at De Herdgang.

NEC’s dismal performances on the road have ultimately ruined their bid to return to Eredivisie, and the Nijmegen outfit go into match day 33 having failed to win any of their last 11 away from home, losing seven.

It’s quite difficult to fathom then how Jong PSV have been chalked up at around the 13/10 mark for this Monday’s game, as they have amassed 31 points from 16 outings in Eindhoven this term and have won their last two at De Herdgang.

Dennis Haar’s charges have been a little in and out overall during the past few weeks having gained seven points from their last five league matches, but they have been extremely reliable on the whole on their own turf and they never struggle to score goals.

Jong have banged in 67 this season to make them the second highest scorers in the Dutch second tier, and that includes four in a thrilling draw against NEC back in September.

But we fully expect Haar’s side to win through this one, even factoring in some likely improvement from the visitors, who will be seeking to impress their new boss.

The odds on offer for the hosts look a bit of a steal, and we’re recommending a two point stake on Jong this Monday, alongside a 3-1 correct score.