In a commanding performance, EC Oudenhove triumphed over Racing Strijpen Reserven with a final score of 5-0 in their league encounter held at Gent on 14 September 2024. The match kicked off at 3:00 pm, and the visitors showcased their prowess throughout the 90 minutes, leaving Racing Strijpen Reserven struggling to find their rhythm.
Racing Strijpen Reserven deployed a 4-4-2 formation, with Yarne Van Gansbeke in goal. The backline consisted of Lander Van Den Bossche on the right, Sammy De Clercq and Sören De Clercq as central defenders, while Gilles Roelandt occupied the left defensive position. In midfield, Michael Van Laethem was stationed on the right, with Renaldo Van Kerkhove and Niels De Visscher in central roles, and Jens Van de Velde on the left. Up front, David De Sutter and Robby Lambertin formed the striking partnership. The formation aimed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing the midfielders to support the forwards in attack.
The substitutes for Racing Strijpen Reserven included Willem Quintijn, Maico Van Twembeke, and Wouter De Koker, who could be called upon to make an impact as the match progressed.
The opening goal came in the 22nd minute, with EC Oudenhove capitalising on a defensive mistake from Racing Strijpen Reserven. This early setback set the tone for the match, and just five minutes later, the visitors doubled their lead from the penalty spot in the 27th minute. The situation worsened for Racing Strijpen as EC Oudenhove scored again in the 29th minute, executing a well-coordinated team move that ended with a right-footed strike.
In an attempt to regain control, Racing Strijpen made a double substitution in the 32nd minute, bringing on Willem Quintijn and Maico Van Twembeke for Sören De Clercq and Michael Van Laethem, respectively. However, the changes did little to stem the tide, as EC Oudenhove struck again in the 34th minute with a stunning lob from outside the box, further extending their lead.
As the first half drew to a close, Racing Strijpen made another substitution at half-time, replacing Niels De Visscher with Sören De Clercq and bringing on Michael Van Laethem for David De Sutter.
The second half began with EC Oudenhove continuing their relentless assault on the Racing Strijpen goal. In the 57th minute, they scored yet another goal, this time from a direct free kick taken from outside the box, showcasing their attacking prowess and leaving Racing Strijpen reeling.
In the 60th minute, Racing Strijpen made another substitution, introducing David De Sutter in place of Jens Van de Velde. However, the struggles continued as Gilles Roelandt had to be replaced by Wouter De Koker in the 70th minute due to injury, further complicating the home side's situation.
The injury woes continued as Racing Strijpen's goalkeeper, Yarne Van Gansbeke, was substituted in the 77th minute, with Jens Van de Velde coming on to take his place. Despite the changes, Racing Strijpen could not find a way back into the game, and the match ended with EC Oudenhove comfortably securing a 5-0 victory.
Niels De Visscher was recognised as the standout player for Racing Strijpen, despite the heavy defeat, but it was clear that EC Oudenhove's clinical finishing and cohesive team play were the defining factors in this one-sided affair.
