Vitesse's chances of snatching the Eredivisie's automatic UEFA Europa League qualification spot suffered a hefty blow on Friday after a late Michiel Kramer goal gave ADO Den Haag a 1-0 win.
The visitors were without the services of Chelsea loanee Bertrand Traore due to suspension and the lively attacker's absence was felt, as Vitesse's 12-match unbeaten run came to an end.
Peter Bosz's men had been aiming to close to within a point of third-placed Feyenoord, who face a trip to Groningen on Sunday.
In an even encounter, Den Haag appeared set to settle for a point in their battle to avoid the drop, but Kramer capitalised on some hesitant defending to slotted in after rounding Eloy Room in the Vitesse goal, effectively securing their safety.
‘Maybe I’ll be signed by Wrexham, who knows? English football would suit me – if an offer came, I wouldn’t think twice, I’d go immediately’ Euro 2024 cult hero reveals his UK dream
‘Managing Leeds? It was an option that appeared, but it wasn’t the right timing. I decided it wasn’t a good idea to leave the club I was at mid-season’: Premier League boss admits to turning down opportunity to replace Jesse Marsch in 2023
