Heerenveen kicked off again, the ball barely moving before AZ Alkmaar's high press snapped into action.
Henriksen and Martens immediately closed down the midfield, forcing them to make a hurried pass backward.
[They're like wolves out there,] Dirk said, his tone admiring. [Heerenveen can't even get out of their own half without pressure breathing down their necks]
[That's exactly what Gertjan Verbeek demands from his players,] Martin replied. [Relentless intensity. It's exhausting to play against, and Heerenveen look completely gassed]
In the 69th minute of the game, the ball found its way to Maracek, who attempted to hoof it long. Instead, the clearance landed straight at Elm's feet just outside the halfway line. Without hesitation, Elm volleyed it forward to Altidore, who had his back to goal.
[Look at that control!] Dirk marveled as Altidore brought the ball down with his chest, shielding it from his marker. [He's so strong, so composed under pressure]
