On Wednesday evening, Schotte Sports Complex in Aalst hosts a top clash: Lindemans Aalst welcomes Knack Roeselare in the Belgian Cup quarterfinals. A high-stakes, all-or-nothing match in which Aalst hopes to shake off its inconsistent start — perhaps with a standout performance.
In recent weeks, coach Frank Depestele’s team has shown two faces: tough losses to Leuven and Achel, but encouraging displays against Maaseik and Antwerp.

“We definitely expected more,” admits manager Johan Devoghel. “Against Leuven and especially Achel, we built up strong leads but let them slip away. That’s clearly something we must improve.”
While Roeselare, Leuven, and Menen lead the standings with a perfect 9/9 record, Aalst is still searching for rhythm and stability. Devoghel stays positive:
“Wednesday we face the top favourite in a knockout cup tie. Three days later we meet them again in the league — two different challenges. In the cup you must beat everyone to reach the final. It’s tough, but the season is long and full of opportunities.”

The team underwent major changes during the summer:
“We don’t like to dwell on the fact we brought in twelve new players — it’s the result of several sporting and financial factors. With eight Belgian players on two-year deals, we’re building something new.”

One of Aalst’s key assets is its serving pressure:
“When our serve works, we can trouble any team. When it doesn’t, we must fight even harder — and our players have shown that fighting spirit.”

He adds:
“Our Canadian opposite Henry Rempel knows we expect more from him, but volleyball is a team effort. To beat Roeselare, you need to play your absolute best — and maybe even a bit more. Whether it’s for the Cup or the league, we’ll give everything to achieve two strong results.”

Text: WV
Photo:Instagram Johan Devoghel