Union Saint-Gilloise eased past AA Gent with a 2-0 win in Wednesday night’s Jupiler Pro League 13th matchday thanks to a match-winning performance by Union's Lazare Amani, who scored a wonder goal from outside the box in the first half and got an assist for the second goal.
The Brussels side dominated the game, starting off with an early goal by Lazare in the 12th minute and finishing Gent off with a goal by Dante Vanzeir in the 82nd minute.
Gent, missing the sick Hein Vanhaezebrouck, played almost the entire second half with one man less after red for Michael Ngadeu (56th minute). Union and Club Brugge, tied in third place in the league, have gained some ground on second place Antwerp, who play tonight. Meanwhile, Gent remains in sixth place.
Union started the game best at the Stade Joseph Marien in Brussels. Captain Teuma had a shot go wide early on, but it was to be redeemed by his fellow midfielder Lazare, who scored a wonder goal moments later. The Ivorian fired the ball into the top corner from outside the box and acrobatically celebrated with a triple flip. It was Lazare’s first goal of the season.
Gent did not have an immediate response and were lucky moments later, when Union's Boniface was clean through on goal but blasted his shot over the bar.
At the end of the first half, Depoitre was denied by Union goalkeeper Moris. Vanzeir missed a great opportunity to double the lead when his attempt went wide.
After the break, Union continued to dictate the game, and things quickly went from bad to worse for Gent.
After ten minutes of play, Ngadeu brought down Vanzeir as the last man, with the Belgian striker clear through on goal. Referee Lardot did not hesitate to give the Cameroonian a direct red card.
Gent's Michael Ngadeu receives a red card. Credit: Virginie Lefour / Belga
Union controlled and put the game out of reach for Gent in the final eight minutes. Vanzeir tapped in from a cross by man of the match Lazare for 2-0.
Gent were on the ropes, but still managed to create a chance when Nurio kicked straight at Moris.
In the other games, Club Brugge beat STVV, meaning they are still tied with Union in third place on 28 points, two behind Antwerp who play this evening.
Genk also trounced Westerlo 6-1 to maintain their position at the top of the Jupiler League. Anderlecht will play tonight away at Zulte Waregem.
