Anderlecht 3 - 1 FC Timisoara

Strugglers seek improvement in form

Updated: November 4, 2009, 10:06 AM UK

After a goalless draw between the sides on matchday three of the Europa League, both Anderlecht and Timisoara must change their recent fortunes if they are to make a case for progression from Group A.

For Belgium's Anderlecht a poor recent home record must be overcome, with just one win in their last five European outings at the Constant Vanden Stock Stadium, while the visiting Timisoara will be looking for a first ever away win in continental competition.

Factor in the stalemate in Romania last time out and the draw would appear to be the likeliest outcome.

The hosts may fancy their chances of giving their fans something to cheer, though, with a 5-0 hammering of Sivasspor in this season's UEFA Champions League third qualifying round proving that they are not averse to turning on the style in Brussels.

Timisoara, meanwhile, have struggled to find their feet in the each of their three group outings to date and will need to do significantly better in the final third if they are to register their first goal, not to mention their first win, in Group A.

Anderlecht come into the match fresh from the news that manager Ariel Jacobs has agreed a new two-year deal to remain with the club, with the 56-year-old coach signing the contract on the same day as his side eased past Lokeren 2-0 in the Jupiler League.

Their only other outing since their last meeting with Timisoara was also a 2-0 win, this time away to Mechelen, and the club sit one point behind leaders Club Brugge and seven clear of third-placed Standard Liege.

Reflecting on the decision to extend his stay with Anderlecht, Jacobs said: "I am honoured by the appreciation and hope to contribute to realising the club's high hopes in the future.''

General manager Herman Van Holsbeeck was fulsome in his praise of Jacobs, declaring: "Ariel is a passionate coach, who exercises his profession with inspiration. His craftsmanship commands the respect of the players, the management and the employees of the club.''

Jacobs will now be hoping to celebrate by improving his record in Europe, which stands at 15 games played and just four wins compared to 55 wins in 77 domestic matches in charge.