GAMES Anderlecht lost once more to Union. An efficient Union won quite easily with 0-2 and just like in the matches against Genk and Club Bruges, Anderlecht couldn't make a fist anymore after the 0-1 before half-time. Even though Anderlecht missed a number of important pawns tonight, it becomes clear that it will be extremely difficult to finish in the top-3 this season.
The relatively calm and balanced start to the match was first somewhat shaken when Moris had to react to a deviation after a free kick by Hazard around the half-hour mark. Anderlecht didn't play badly, but it combined too sloppily to really threaten and in the zone of truth no one was reached.
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Continue reading Union did strike on their first chance before halftime. Niang got a lot of space on the left, ran far and the ball eventually fell in front of Khalaili who scored. An avoidable goal, as Anderlecht stood by and watched.
The counter-goal apparently arrived, as Purple White did not get beyond two near attempts by Huerta before halftime.
Just after halftime, Anderlecht immediately escaped the 0-2 when Ivanovic ran offside on a counter. An inspirationless Anderlecht could not threaten again until minute 68 through Leoni and Hazard on free kicks. Immediately after the free kick, Union struck deadly again. Niang set off from his own half and after being sent deep, coolly finished the great opportunity.
After the 0-2, the candle seemed to be extinguished and Coosemans had to make a good stretch on a shot by Van de Perre. However, substitute Angulo had a good move up his sleeve, but Moris stopped Vazquez' header, but Anderlecht got no further.
Another disappointing performance against a top club, just like against Club Bruges and Genk. Union themselves didn't play well tonight, but even against a moderate Union, Anderlecht was too small. A very vicious end of the league awaits Anderlecht with next week's undoubtedly warm visit to the unpredictable Standard and then confrontations with Westerlo and Cercle Brugge who are both fighting to avoid the play-downs.
