The 2009-10 campaign was a dramatic fight for survival for Sparta Rotterdam as the Kasteelheren finished a perilous 16th in the Eredivisie, forcing them into the fateful relegation play-offs. Leading the attack were the joint top scorers, Erik Falkenburg and Rydell Poepon, who each notched 10 crucial goals in a difficult season that also saw the emergence of future Dutch star Kevin Strootman. Despite their best efforts, the club was ultimately relegated to the Eerste Divisie after a heartbreaking play-off final loss to city rivals Excelsior, marking a major low point and the end of an era in the top flight.