Ten-man Heracles held by Helmond Sport as period title party is delayed

Heracles Almelo missed the opportunity to secure the first period title after drawing 2-2 away to Helmond Sport. Vincent Heilmann’s side played most of the match with ten men but still created chances to take all three points.

Maurice Wrusch gave Heracles a fifth-minute lead, heading in Djevencio van der Kust’s delivery. The visitors’ position changed three minutes later when David Vicente Robles was shown a red card. Tarik Essakkati soon brought Helmond level, but Heracles reorganised and regained control despite their numerical disadvantage.

Manny Rodríguez restored the lead shortly before half-time with a low finish from the edge of the penalty area. Helmond increased their intensity after the interval and equalised ten minutes into the second half, Sem Dekkers converting from close range after Heracles failed to clear near the touchline.

Essakkati’s second yellow card in the 72nd minute restored parity in player numbers, allowing Heracles to apply late pressure. Helmond goalkeeper Menno Bergsen denied Rodríguez and Van der Kust, while Jean-Paul N’Djoli had earlier seen a promising effort saved. Heilmann praised his players afterwards, telling the club’s official website they had continued pressing high and pursuing victory after the dismissal. “I can only give my team a big compliment,” he said. The draw left Heracles top of the standings on 22 points, but their period-title celebration was postponed.