R. Wavre Limal

L2 faced a tough challenge on the road to Wavre, battling not only a determined home side but also a depleted squad, with several players sidelined by illness and injury. Despite these challenges, the team put in an impressive performance, particularly in the first half, before ultimately succumbing to a late 2-1 defeat.

Special mention must be made about one of the L2 captains (all 3 are fantastic) – Marianne, who traveled from Mons after having played 90 minutes with L1 to support her squad in the second half.

The match began with FC Irlande Ladies fielding just 11 players, a difficult situation considering the team’s injuries and sickness. Nevertheless, they came out with energy and resilience, playing some of their best football of the season. They controlled the tempo for much of the first 45 minutes, showing excellent organization.

The breakthrough came in the 14th minute when Fra’s pinpoint assist set up Isa, who calmly slotted the ball home to give FC Irlande a deserved 1-0 lead. The first half ended with FC Irlande in the lead, but they knew the battle was far from over.

The second half saw Wavre push forward more aggressively, seeking an equalizer. Despite their best efforts defending, a high ball from the Wavre’s left wing sailed over the short FCI keeper, allowing it to drop just under the crossbar and into the net for the equalizer.

As the match wore on, fatigue started to set in for FC Irlande, with many players visibly struggling. Despite their tired legs, they kept their heads up and looked for an opportunity to steal a win. Unfortunately, in the dying minutes of the game, Wavre found the decisive blow. A perfectly executed free kick, leaving the FC Irlande keeper with no chance. The final whistle blew with Wavre celebrating a hard-fought 2-1 victory.

Finally at dear Audergem our home and base, FCI faced Wavre, close fight in the table race.

First half even, no team with clear possession, Determined, perhaps a sprinkle of aggression.

FCI managed to create chances,

with Bartlett serving beautiful passes,

Wavre’s attacks came to an end,

with Mattsson showing how to defend.

In the 34th minute the referee said halt, Whistled for a free kick (without our fault).

The result was a header in our net,

We might be down, but FCI is not yet bet.

Second half FCI’s equalizer chase started, Temperatures dropped, football ain’t for the fainthearted.

Crowds were hoping for heat to reach their toes, Dessain shot on goal, ah it was so close!

Then in our penalty box a fight for the ball, In our eyes fair but the referee makes a call, Before we continue the player’s leg needs first aid, An ambulance is called and the game is delayed.

After a long wait the referee calls off the game, It is cold, it is late and more injuries is not the aim, Minutes later he seems to change his mind, This should not be possible, as rules are clearly defined.

Yet there are no answers, only drama and frustration, as the end of this is written by the Belgian Football Federation.