ROTTERDAM, Dec 23 (SW) - Feyenoord struggled but overcame to beat Sparta in the Rotterdam city derby played at De Kuip stadium.

Ivan Cvetkov's goal for Sparta in the 16th minute was cancelled out by Greek striker Angelos Charisteas just a minute later.

A controversial call by the referee allowed Theo Lucius to put Feyenoord in the lead from the penalty spot in the 29th minute.

Just after the break, Iderlindo levelled for Sparta however and the visitors, usually the underdogs in this derby, were actually the better side throughout most of the match.

But Feyenoord would take the victory as substitute Tim Vincken netted for 3-2 in the 75th minute.

Erwin Koeman's outfit is fifth in the Dutch Eredivisie, while Sparta are fourteenth.