FC Utrecht are second in the Dutch Eredivisie following a narrow but valuable 1-0 victory over Willem II. Only Ajax Amsterdam are ahead at this point.
The home side could have scored several goals in the first half at Nieuw Galgenwaard stadium, but netted just one. Jacob Bulenga and Dries Mertens hit the woodwork and Ricky van Wolfswinkel had an effort saved by goalkeeper Aerts.
But the opening goal was eventually scored in the 38th minute as defender Francis Dickoh struck home after Willem II failed to properly clear a corner kick.
Willem II never really threatened Utrecht's lead in the second half and had their manager Alfons Groenendijk sent off after continuously criticizing the referee.
Utrecht have six points from two games, which is their best season start since 1999.