Hercules did not let it rest and came close to equalizing with Pieters. Vos could also score, but let the ball slip from his foot. The Utrechters were perhaps even a fraction better in that phase of the match, but lacked efficiency. Bastmeijer did score on a cross from Pieters, but the flag went up for handball. Just before half-time, Hercules came close to equalizing again, with a shot from Bijl.