Eredivisie End of Season Review: SC Heerenveen
Final Position: 9th
Overview:
Robin Veldman was able to steer SC Heerenveen into a play-off spot after the departure of Robin van Persie and thanks to Go Ahead Eagles cup victory. They were dismantled by AZ Alkmaar, a result which ended their slim chances of European football this season. However, it was an improvement on the 11th place finish the side achieved in the Eredivisie last season. At home, the side were very strong, losing only once in 17 games, the fourth best record in the league. This was a contrast to an away record that was the league worst, with just seven points from 17 games. It is clear that the side need a better approach to away games next season.
Player of the season: Jacob Trenskow
24-year-old Danish winger Jacob Trenskow had a fantastic first season in the Eredivisie. The winger joined in the summer from Swedish side Kalmar and finished with seven goals and three assists in 27 games. There is certainly still areas of his game he needs to improve next season, but a year of top flight Dutch football should have benefited him.
Young Player of the Season: Oliver Braude
Norweigian 21-year-old Oliver Braude, also had a strong season. The youngster built on a breakout season last year with 36 appearances and two assists from left-back. He won 69% of his tackles and 61% of his duels overall. The defender was also decent going forward, completing just under 56% of his attempted dribbles.
Summer needs:
Someone who can hit double figures in goals. Ion Nicolaescu had moments, with eight goals in 25 games, and 12 goals overall if we include cup fixtures. If the Moldovan striker can build on that, it could go a long way to helping the side reach the play-offs again next season. They also need to look at how to win on the road, which may be tactical adjustments or a different form of preparation for away fixtures.
Grade: B
GBeNeFN | Ben Jackson
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