According to Voetbal International, AZ have maintained their position in the Eredivisie without losing points, thanks to two impressive goals from Daal and Meerdink against SC Heerenveen. The Alkmaarders have taken the top spot in the league after their fifth consecutive win.
Daal opened the scoring with a shot in the far corner, while Meerdink helped AZ to a 2-2 draw with a pass twenty minutes before time. Meerdink was also crucial in the 2-3 win for AZ, providing an assist to Ayoub Oufkir. AZ trainer Leeroy Echteld praised Meerdink's performance, stating that he had given him the trust to play a key role in the game.
Meerdink revealed that Echteld had spoken to him during the break, urging him to play more maturely. Echteld denied that the conversation was confrontational, stating that he was only being strict when necessary.