RSCA is hosting KAA Gent on matchday two of the Champions’ Play-offs. Back on home soil, RSC Anderlecht will be looking for their first points on Sunday evening after opening their campaign with a defeat at the Jan Breydel Stadium. Jérémy Taravel saw his side struggle in the first half against Club. “We made adjustments at half-time, which improved our second half. That’s what we need to build on,” said the coach. Watch his full press conference ahead of RSCA vs. KAA Gent on Mauve TV.
Taravel reflected shortly on the Easter Monday clash. “The first half against Club Brugge bothered me. We weren’t at the level required. We adjusted at half-time, and the second half was better,” he explained. “That’s the foundation we need to build on. We’ve thoroughly analysed the first half to improve on Sunday.”
The coach mainly pointed to a lack of intensity, something his team had shown in Bruges just last month. “We started the game too passively and were one man short in midfield, which explains bringing on Mario Stroeykens at half-time.” Possession also fell short. “We need to do a better job of keeping the ball. We have more than enough quality for that.”
“At RSCA, you always have to aim to win. The pressure is always there - that’s why I love football. It’s now up to us to break the negative momentum and look forward again.” The Frenchman is determined to avoid a repeat of such a first half in the play-offs. “All the players and staff were aware that our first-half performance was not up to RSC Anderlecht standards. We need to show more character - for the club and for the fans.”
KAA Gent currently sit two points ahead of Anderlecht. A win would see Taravel’s side leapfrog the Buffaloes. “KAA Gent are a direct rival for third place. We need to take as many points as possible in the next two matches to close the gap to STVV. These will be decisive games for the remainder of the play-offs.”
Taravel will once again be without Danylo Sikan and César Huerta this weekend, while Ilay Camara is not yet fit. Kick-off is on Sunday 12 April at 18:30 at the Lotto Park.
