As Michael Reiziger and Manuel da Costa are on the sidelines because of injuries, Carlos Salcido moves to the heart of defence, PSV head coach Ronald Koeman decided to let Sun make his first start at PSV.

The Chinese left back put in a convincing display and delivered some fine crosses. Culina got a chance in the 15th minute, when he found himself in enough space and time to unleash a shot that he sent straight at keeper Pieckenhagen.

PSV began the second half in invigorated mood and Sun had a wonderful chance to break the deadlock soon after the break, but the first Chinese to make an appearance in the Dutch Eredivisie was controversially adjudged to have been offside.

Koeman then brought on Alcides for Kromkamp, who clearly had not been able to cope with the demands of playing on an artificial pitch. With fifteen minutes to go the match appeared to be heading for a tame draw, when Koeman decided to make a third substitution. Tardelli came on to strengthen PSV's attacking options and Sun, who made a successful debut, was withdrawn.

PSV managed to break the deadlock in the final stages after all. Farfan started a run, wriggled his way past some defenders to slot home past goalkeeper Pieckenhagen. Tardelli was to have the last say after all in injury time, when he rounded his marker before steering his shot beyond Pieckenhagen.

The 2-0 win keeps PSV six points clear at the top, but nearest rivals Ajax and AZ, who have one game in hand, will be in action Sunday afternoon.

Ronald Koeman reserved special praise for Xiang Sun.

"Sun did quite well on his debut for PSV. We knew he started his career as a left winger and a left-footed player gives us more options," he said after the match.

"He has exchanged good passes and delivered some fine crosses," he added.