© BELGIUM
The first victory of the season is finally a fact for Standard and Carl Hoefkens, thanks to the newcomers. “We are not yet where we want to be, but mentally this is an important victory,” said Hoefkens.
Hoefkens saw how his team in Eupen showed a different face than before the international break. With more maturity, more calmness on the ball and, above all, more goals. Newcomers Kanga (0-1) and Kawabe (0-2) put the Rouches on roses just before half time. After the break, debutant Sowah (0-3) also scored his goal. “This is the football I want to play with Standard,” said Hoefkens. “I saw a team that wants to play dominant football. We are not yet where we want to be in a month’s time, but mentally this is a very important victory.”
Despite the 0-3 lead after 75 minutes, Standard reached the final signal with their buttocks clenched. Substitute Finnbogason made it 1-3 ten minutes before the end, after which another goal by Paeshuyse was disallowed after a double VAR check and Alzate was excluded in minute 103 with a second yellow card.
With a six matchday delay, the Standard 2.0 season now seems to finally be starting. “The only pity is that we now have to start playing catch-up. But sometimes it is also an advantage to be the pursuer. I am especially happy that the supporters can celebrate tonight because they have always continued to support us, even after that 3 out of 18.” (thst)
(LD)
