ARNHEM, Aug 26 (SW) - AZ Alkmaar can be quite certain of maintaining their Eredivisie lead after a 1-3 win at Vitesse in the city of Arnhem.

After their 8-1 win over NAC in the first match of the season, AZ were motivated for another good performance.

Louis van Gaal's men had more difficulties at the Gelredome against Vitesse, but did eventually walk away with a 1-3 victory.

Danny Koevermans opened the score after twenty minutes, and Stijn Schaars, who recently made his first appearance for the Dutch national team, doubled the lead in the 57th.

Danko Lazovic got one back for the hosts in the 89th minute to give his team renewed hope for the final minutes, buy Demy de Zeeuw restored the gap in injury time.