After the brilliant victory in the derby against Zulte Waregem, Club NXT U23 awaited a confrontation with Francs Borains. In a pleasant match, our youngsters drew the longest straw. The De Smet twins decided the match in the first half with an assist from Liam and a clever goal from Lenn. Thus Club NXT U23 climbs to second place in the standings.
No Nick Shinton in goal, but the debut of Axl De Corte. Barberá and Homma had returned with the first team from Bodø and started in the starting lineup. Due to the absence of the injured Vermant, Et-Taïbi was again captain. He provided the first chance, but Salah unfortunately could not kick his cross into goal. Our Japanese frolicked with the opponent and often dribbled through the visiting lines. In one of these actions, he saw Lenn De Smet standing free, but our striker popped hard at goalkeeper Djoco. Around the quarter-hour mark, the visitors threatened via a free kick, but Gillekens kicked the ball wide of the Bruges goal. Afterwards Kadiri also had an opportunity to open the score, but his shot from just outside the penalty area went high over De Corte's goal. Club NXT U23 was often able to recover the ball after poor passing by the visitors. Homma was thus able to reach Lenn De Smet in the sixteen, who passed to Barberá, but a defender was able to narrowly clear the leather. De Roeve ran his lungs out like every game and often sent crosses in front of goal, but Blauw-Zwart could not score for the time being. Nor did Francs Borains succeed, even on free kicks from the experienced Chevalier. Goalkeeper De Corte caught easily.
After yet another nicely set up attack, with perfect, fast passing, Liam De Smet gave the ultimate pass to his brother Lenn, who netted the 1-0 with a hard shot. Shortly before halftime, Barberá had the chance to double the score. His shot was unfortunately blocked. We went to rest with a deserved lead.
