Beerschot managed to secure their third win of the season with a dramatic 1-0 victory over KV Mechelen, showcasing resilience amid multiple controversies during the match.
The encounter at Het Kiel on March 2, 2025, highlighted Beerschot's struggles, including playing with ten men after goalkeeper Nick Shinton received a red card early in the second half.
Beerschot dominated the first half, holding around 70% possession and continuously pressuring the Mechelen defense. After sustained efforts, they finally broke the deadlock just before halftime when Welat Cagro netted the ball. Ewan Henderson played a pivotal role, outmaneuvering the defense and assisting Cagro for the goal.
Despite their lead, the match took a turn when Shinton, misjudging a long ball, handled the ball outside the penalty area, leading to his dismissal. Backup goalkeeper Davor Matijas stepped onto the field under pressure, marking his first minutes since September.
Matijas quickly became the hero, saving KV Mechelen's penalty attempt from Kerim Mrabti just minutes after arriving on the pitch. Fans erupted with joy as Matijas dived expertly to parry the ball away, maintaining Beerschot's slim lead.
Even after Matijas’ heroics, the drama escalated when Mechelen believed they had equalized late during the second half. A strike from Lauberbach was called back by VAR, ruling it out for offside, leaving Mechelen frustrated and the Beerschot defense relieved.
Post-match, Cagro expressed his jubilation, stating, "This feels good; the team deserved these points today. This victory can be a boost for us moving forward." He acknowledged the struggles they had faced during the season and the hard work leading up to his first competitive goal.
Beerschot's coach, Dirk Kuijt, praised his side’s efforts, saying, "I saw many happy faces, which makes me happy too. The players have worked very hard all season, and this feeling is what you play for." He noted the importance of the win for the team's morale as they continue their battle against relegation.
The victory, though hard-fought, still leaves Beerschot at the bottom of the league table, yet only two points behind Kortrijk. It provides hope for upcoming matches as they prepare for another confrontation with STVV next week. Meanwhile, KV Mechelen must contend with the stress of the relegation battle as they let slip what felt like a golden opportunity to grab points.
This thrilling win was not just about securing three points; it showcased the spirit of Beerschot as they continue to fight against adversity. The crowd celebrated loudly, breathing new life and optimism as they look forward to the challenges ahead.