Late Drama at Forestierstadion as Harelbeke Settle for 2-2 Draw Against Resilient Zulte Waregem II

For Harelbeke, an afternoon under the crisp October sky at the Forestierstadion offered a chance to reassert their promotion ambitions. For Zulte Waregem II, it was an opportunity to claw upwards from the lower reaches of the Second Amateur Division - VFV A. Ninety minutes later, both sides had to settle for a share of the points in a pulsating 2-2 draw that was equal parts theater and test of resolve.

From the opening whistle, Harelbeke—third in the table with eyes on the summit—pressed forward, buoyed by a home crowd eager to see a response after last weekend’s 1-3 setback at Oostkamp. Early possession signaled intent, with fluid movement in midfield hinting at the form that had brought four wins from their previous five matches.

But if recent weeks had revealed any lesson, it was that Zulte Waregem II are not to be underestimated. Entering in 11th but fresh off a four-match unbeaten run, the visitors brought poise and pragmatism. Within 15 minutes, Harelbeke’s pressure paid dividends. A sweeping counter down the right flank saw the ball whipped into the area, where the ever-reliable striker met it with a glancing header to steer the hosts ahead.

Zulte Waregem II did not shrink from the challenge. They responded before halftime, capitalizing on a momentary lapse in the Harelbeke rearguard. A slick passing move sliced through midfield and found in space. With a clinical finish, the visitors were level, their bench erupting in approval.

The second half offered no respite for either set of supporters. Ten minutes after the restart, Harelbeke reclaimed the initiative. Following a scramble from a set piece, midfielder rifled a low shot through a crowded penalty area. The roar from the Forestierstadion stands suggested this would be the decisive blow.

But Zulte Waregem II, whose campaign has been marked by late drama, summoned yet another response. As the clock ticked toward the final quarter-hour, they won a free kick on the edge of the area. The delivery was inch-perfect; chaos ensued, and pounced, stabbing home the equalizer just beyond the reach of Harelbeke’s goalkeeper.

There was still time for more tension. Harelbeke threw numbers forward, desperate for a winner that would restore their place among the league’s elite. Zulte Waregem II, meanwhile, packed the box and looked for a chance on the break. With five minutes remaining, tempers flared: a crunching tackle from Harelbeke’s captain drew heated protests and, after a lengthy discussion, the referee produced a yellow rather than a red—a flashpoint that underscored the stakes.

As the final whistle sounded, both sides were left to reckon with a result that reflected their current trajectories. For Harelbeke, the draw means they remain in third place with 13 points after six matches, two points adrift of the early pacesetters. Their recent surge—four wins in five prior to today—has established them as genuine contenders, but today’s inability to hold a lead renews questions about defensive concentration.

Zulte Waregem II, meanwhile, move to 8 points and steady themselves in 11th place. After a rocky opening to the season, their recent slate—unbeaten in three, including a dominant 4-0 over HO Kalken—suggests a side finding its feet. Their capacity to respond to adversity, as shown by a spirited fightback today and in their 4-2 win at Gent, may well be the key to climbing further from the lower rungs.

This result adds another chapter to a head-to-head narrative that, while not storied, is quickly developing intrigue. Harelbeke’s hopes of overtaking the frontrunners remain alive, but the margins are narrowing. For Zulte Waregem II, every point matters, and every comeback is a step toward mid-table security.

Looking ahead, Harelbeke faces an immediate need to shore up their defense and harness their attacking flair if they hope to convert promise into a sustained promotion charge. For Zulte Waregem II, a burgeoning belief—fueled by today’s resilience—offers hope that the season’s early struggles are now firmly in the rearview mirror.

Both clubs depart Forestierstadion with reasons for both frustration and optimism. In a league where the middle of the table is as volatile as autumn wind, the next fixture may yet prove decisive in shaping the course of their seasons.