Three points that hand RSCA a good start in these Champions' Play-offs and bring them level with Union, who travel to Genk on Monday evening.
On Saturday night, Sporting hosted reigning champions Antwerp at Lotto Park for the opening game of the Champions' Play-offs. Brian Riemer fielded almost the same eleven as against Kortrijk just before the international break, but Yari Verschaeren (injured) and Luis Vázquez were replaced in the starting line-up by Théo Leoni and Thorgan Hazard. Both teams started the match well, but failed to create any real chances. Antwerp had the most ball possession, but had to wait until the half-hour for a chance from Vincent Janssen. Purple and White hit back through Mats Rits, whose shot flew closely over the goal. Just before half-time, Owen Wijndal gave a headbutt to Thorgan Hazard during an altercation and, after consulting VAR, referee Vergoote sent off the Dutch left-back. Visiting coach Mark van Bommel immediately replaced Vincent Janssen with Ritchie De Laet.
In the second half, Anders Dreyer was quick to test the home team's defence. From the following corner Mario Stroeykens was able to cross and Killian Sardella was at the right spot to deviate the ball into the nets. It was his very first goal for RSCA’s first team. Antwerp reacted quickly, but Michel-Ange Balikwisha did not beat Kasper Schmeichel. Our team started to take advantage of their numerical superiority for 15 minutes. Anders Dreyer had two good chances, but missed the target and found Jean Butez ons his way. Ludwig Augustinsson and Thorgan Hazard's chances were undone by Jean Butez and Toby Alderweireld. The pressure eased after that and Brian Riemer threw in Francis Amuzu and Thomas Delaney to replace Mario Stroeykens and Mats Rits. In the closing stages, Thorgan Hazard and Anders Dreyer could have scored another goal, but the score remained 1-0.
RSC Anderlecht |
|
Royal Antwerp FC |
|
