Sparta wins in Utrecht for first time since 1997, thanks in part to goalkeeper Olij

Another chapter could just be added to Sparta Rotterdam’s memorable season. In the semi-finals of the playoffs for a European ticket, Maurice Steijn’s formation triumphed in and against Utrecht: 1-2.

Goals by Vito van Crooij (penalty), Tobias Lauritsen (shot from distance) and fine goalkeeping by Nick Olij gave Sparta, the number six of the Eredivisie, a good starting position for Sunday’s return to Het Kasteel.

Only twenty minutes before time Utrecht rewarded itself with a goal still for the work done. Eredivisie top scorer Anastasios Douvikas, who else, brought the tension back. The Greek’s goal led to an exciting final phase, but the equalizer did not materialize.

Sparta gave its calling card early in the match with a ball from Koki Saito hitting the top of the crossbar. A minute later Olij saved catty on a blast from Bart Ramselaar.

Watch reactions from Sparta goalkeeper Nick Olij, Sparta coach Maurice Steijn and FC Utrecht midfielder Sander van de Streek below.

In the lively first half, Douvikas (wide) and Van Crooij (just wide) also had chances, but the first goal fell after almost half an hour.

Ruben Kluivert, Utrecht’s central back replacement for the suspended Mike van der Hoorn, floored Lauritsen at a corner. On the advice of VAR, referee Sander van der Eijk put the ball on the spot. Van Crooij took advantage of the opportunity.

Just before the break, Lauritsen doubled the margin with a shot from the edge of the box, after which the task became even harder for Utrecht, the number seven of the premier league.

The home team went all out in the second half, got chances as well, but each time Olij proved a stand in the way. Douvikas eventually scored the deserved tying goal.

Bas Dost was brought on in the closing stages, hoping for an equalizer. It did not come. So Sparta won in Utrecht for the first time since 1997 and can continue writing its possible bestseller on Sunday.