RKC Waalwijk's miserable season continued this with a 1-0 defeat to Willem II despite a much-improved display.

The Eredivisie's bottom side bossed the first half but fell apart once Christophe Gregoire slotted home in the 63rd minute after his penalty had been saved by home keeper Ohad Levita.

From there on in, Willem looked in complete control against an RKC team devoid of confidence having now accumulated only three points from 12 games this season.

The hosts' misery was compounded with 13 minutes to go when Benjamin De Ceulaer was sent off for hauling down Said Boutahar.

Boutahar was first to threaten with a shot from outside the area, which Levita got down well to save.

The rest of the opening 45 minutes was all about RKC and their quest to record their second win of the season.

Wouter Gudde came within inches of handing them the lead after 22 minutes, his shot following a free-kick from Derk Boerrigter hitting the bar.

Dustley Mulder was next to try his luck with a right-footed effort that flashed inches past the post.

Mulder turned provider eight minutes before the break with a right-wing cross that Charlison Benschop met with a clever flick. The backheel appeared destined for the net only for Maikel Aerts to make a stunning save.

RKC were not able to continue their domination after the break and they found themselves one down 18 minutes after the restart.

Gregoire was felled by Levita and, although the keeper redeemed himself by saving his spot-kick, Gregoire tucked home the rebound.

RKC's hopes were effectively ended when De Ceulaer saw red for a professional foul, with Willem missing two late chances to make the scoreline even more emphatic.

The first fell to Boerrigter, who shot wide when well placed, and the second to Ronnie Reniers, who shot over from close range.