Belgian First Division wrap: Leaders held by Lierse

Table-toppers Genk were held to a shock 1-1 draw at lowly Lierse in the Belgian First Division on Saturday.

Lierse headed into the encounter at the Herman Vanderpoortenstadion in second last spot on the table having gone winless in their last nine league matches.

But veteran striker Wesley Sonck gave the hosts an unexpected lead in the 31st minute, which they managed to carry into the second half.

As expected, Genk came into the second period full of attacking intent and were rewarded when Elyaniv Barda levelled the scores from the penalty spot in the 66th minute.

But despite some late attacking thrusts from the visitors, Lierse held on for a valuable point, although they remain firmly entrenched in the relegation zone, five points adrift of safety.

Elsewhere, Zulte-Waregem were too strong at home for fellow mid-table side Westerlo, winning 2-0 courtesy of goals from Moussa Traore and Jeremy Bokila.

And at the Kehrweg Stadion, a Kevin Vandebergh strike proved enough to secure Eupen’s 1-0 home victory over Charleroi.

Saturday’s remaining matches – Cercle Bruges’ visit to Lokeren and Sint-Truiden’s fixture with KV Mechelen – were postponed because of wintry weather.