Football Season Guide

Ended a 5-year hiatus in the second tier. Became champions of the Challenge Pro League and returned to the top flight as early as last February. Went undefeated the entire campaign – 28 wins and 4 draws. Finished full 21 points above the team in second place. Had by far the best attack and best defence 74:23. Dutch manager Marink Reedijk was the mastermind behind this great season. He left for pastures greener in the summer though. Replaced by a vastly inexperienced countryman of his. This is first head coaching job for Tim Bakens. He spent the last 5 seasons as an assistant coach at Helmond Sport and PEC Zwolle. 34-year-old Lennart Mertens scored goals at will last season. He will be the main focus of attack this campaign too. The entire front line that kept scoring goals with ease last season stays put. The one major departure this summer was that of goalkeeper Reus. Maxim Deman is not very experienced but he seems set to be the new number one. In terms of strengthening the team there has been minimal activity so far. After the undefeated last season the manager seems happy to trust the same players. Beveren have lots of players with top flight experience in their ranks. Captain Jans and centre-back Godeau, both 34-year-olds, remain the main figures in defence. In midfield playmaker Guillaume De Schryver and 38-year-old Bruls know the top flight very well. Need to add depth though. Right now have only 15 field players. Expected to add many players on loan at a discount in late August, until then will be trusting the group that brought the impressive promotion.