In a thrilling encounter at Gent on 5th October 2024, Racing Strijpen Reserven faced KSK Vlierzele in a league home match that ended with a scoreline of 2-3 in favour of the visitors. The match kicked off at 2:30pm and was filled with drama, including a flurry of goals and significant disciplinary actions.
Racing Strijpen Reserven lined up in a 4-4-1-1 formation, which featured Wouter De Koker in goal. The back four consisted of Sammy De Clercq and Lander Van Den Bossche as the right and left defenders, respectively, while Sören De Clercq and Tuur De Pandelaere occupied the central defensive roles. In midfield, Maico Van Twembeke and Senne Vandenberghe played on the right and left flanks, while Fabian Verckens and Renaldo Van Kerkhove formed the central partnership. Viktor Walraevens operated just behind the lone striker, Kobe De Bisschop, who led the line. The substitutes for the match included Jens Van de Velde, Maxim Zeghers, Bjorn Spitaels, and David De Sutter.
The match began with a tense atmosphere, and it was not long before the first significant event occurred. In the 19th minute, Wouter De Koker received a yellow card, setting a precarious tone for the home side. As the first half progressed, KSK Vlierzele took the lead in the 33rd minute, scoring the opening goal that put Racing Strijpen Reserven on the back foot.
Immediately following the goal, Racing Strijpen made two substitutions in a bid to regain control. Jens Van de Velde replaced Sören De Clercq, while Maxim Zeghers came on for Maico Van Twembeke, both changes occurring in the 33rd minute. Just two minutes later, in the 35th minute, Jens Van de Velde made an immediate impact by scoring, bringing the score to 1-1 and igniting hope for the home fans.
The first half concluded with the score level at 1-1, but the second half began with a dramatic turn of events. Just two minutes into the half, Wouter De Koker received a second yellow card, resulting in a red card and leaving Racing Strijpen with ten men. This pivotal moment forced further adjustments, with Maico Van Twembeke re-entering the fray to replace Kobe De Bisschop in the 47th minute.
As the match wore on, Racing Strijpen made additional substitutions, bringing on Bjorn Spitaels for Senne Vandenberghe at half-time, and later, in the 75th minute, introducing both Senne Vandenberghe and Kobe De Bisschop for Lander Van Den Bossche and Fabian Verckens, respectively.
In the 85th minute, a yellow card was issued, though the recipient was not specified. Shortly thereafter, in the 86th minute, David De Sutter came on for Sammy De Clercq, and he made his presence felt by converting a penalty, putting Racing Strijpen ahead 2-1.
However, the lead was short-lived. KSK Vlierzele responded with two late goals, first equalising in the 91st minute and then snatching victory with another goal in the 93rd minute. The match concluded with a final score of 2-3, leaving Racing Strijpen Reserven to reflect on a match filled with highs and lows, particularly the impact of the red card and the late collapse that cost them dearly.
Tuur De Pandelaere was recognised as the standout performer of the match, showcasing resilience and skill throughout the encounter.
