Efficient Anderlecht secures 3-0 victory over Cercle

GAMES Anderlecht efficiently defeated Cercle Brugge 3-0 in a match where the home team capitalized on their opportunities. Leoni opened the scoring, followed by Dreyer doubling the lead after a mistake from Cercle. Leoni added a third goal after a blunder from Warleson in the second half. Anderlecht remains on top of the league, but also Bruges impressively defeated Genk with 4-0. So the gap remains two points. More reason for concern, are the injuries of Dreyer and Schmeichel as both players had to be replaced yesterday.

Anderlecht's defense was tested early on the match, but Schmeichel made a crucial save in the first minute. Anderlecht struggled to keep the ball and failed to create many opportunities. Although then suddenly two goals fell in just one minute: Leoni dribbled past the visiting defence and scored and Dreyer capitalized on a defensive mistake. Minutes later, Dreyer's injury forced an early substitution, with Amuzu coming on.

Despite Cercle's attempts, Anderlecht easily maintained control and even became the better side halfway the first half. This pattern continued after the break, with Anderlecht now rapidly finding openings in Cercle's defensive line. This lead to several more chances, but the 3-0 came after a blunder of goalkeeper Warleson. The goalie couldn't catch the ball and Leoni was quickly enough to push it over the line. At the end of the match, Vazquez failed to score a fourth for the Mauves. 

After a difficult start, Anderlecht in the end easily secured the win. Looking ahead, Anderlecht will face Cercle Bruges in the next match, with uncertainty surrounding the availability of Schmeichel and Dreyer. Hazard and Verschaeren are out for sure. On the bright side: N'diaye celebrated his return yesterday and is available again.

Source: © Internal source