Zomer looked devastated by the referee's decision. He groaned while shaking his head as he trudged off the field under a chorus of boos from the home crowd.
His teammates looked deflated, already stretched thin by AZ Alkmaar's relentless pressure.
[You have to feel for Zomer,] Martin said, his tone more measured. [He's been under siege tonight. Benjamin's pace and trickery were always going to cause problems, but that challenge was just asking for trouble]
As Benjamin was helped to his feet by Henriksen and Martens, the young winger nodded to the referee, signaling he was okay to continue.
The crowd erupted in cheers, and their appreciation for his resilience echoed around the stadium.
[Listen to this place,] Dirk said, his voice rising above the din. [The fans love this kid. And why wouldn't they? He's been electric tonight... He's their Golden Boy]