It was no coincidence that it was Julien De Sart who forced the decision for Ghent on Saturday. However, things could have turned out differently against Westerlo, as the man who had just signed saw from the bench. The midfielder would ensure that it was still a beautiful evening for him and Ghent.
Recently renewed a contract? Then you go to the bank, Vanhaezebrouck seemed to think. That is certainly what happened to De Sart, because Kums appeared at the kick-off. There was also room for Torunarigha and Fernandez-Pardo in the Ghent starting eleven. Bart Goor made 4 changes at Westerlo after the 1-1 against OHL.
The former Anderlecht player succeeded in motivating his players, as they immediately moved forward. After just one minute, Stassin deflected Sayyadmanesh’s shot into the goal (0-1). Stassin soon threatened a second time, Roef tapped into the corner. The home goalkeeper was also ready for a Western counter via Madsen.
Westerlo was therefore the most dangerous team in the opening quarter, although they had also woken up at Ghent in the meantime. Going from 0-1 to 2-1 took just 2 minutes. First the inevitable Gandelman headed home on a free kick from Hong. After a misunderstanding between Gillekens and Tagir, Fernandez-Pardo took advantage with the 2-1.
That must have been a hard mental blow, but the visitors recovered wonderfully. On a cross from Rommens, Madsen of all people scored with a volley that slid over the goal line under Roef’s body (2-2). With shots from Alcocer (against the post) and Bos (saved by Roef), the score was 2-3 in the air.
The message for Ghent after a first half that was not boring for a second? Don’t let Westerlo play football, because then it will do just fine. Madsen and Rommens also wanted to prove this after the break as the final stop of a visiting campaign. Roef was always able to work in a corner. Important in anticipation of a quality injection.
The Sart provides extra momentum
That came on the hour mark with the arrival of three Ghent substitutes, with De Sart in particular providing extra momentum. Gillekens still had a story about his first shot, but a second shot flew hard against the ropes (3-2). Fernandez-Pardo still had the 4-2 at his feet, but Gillekens was able to avoid it by spreading himself wide.
Ghent with a 6 point bonus to Mechelen
KAA Gent is certainly recovering its margin in the standings compared to KV Mechelen: it goes from three points to six points again. If Ghent does not lose in Mechelen next weekend, it will be ready for a final victory in the Europe Play-offs. Despite some nice play at times, Westerlo is still looking for its first win in the play-offs.
Tags: Dartel Westerlo Ghent stagger hour substitute Sart festive evening restores margin
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