“A game of two halves” | OneFootball

Board member for sport Markus Krösche, interim coach Dennis Schmitt and Mario Götze assess the match against Leverkusen.

Board member for sport Markus Krösche: “The first half wasn’t good, we were a bit sleepy. We conceded the goals too easily and didn’t make the tackles. It was better in the second half, there was significantly more intensity and aggression, and we were more compact. We got a goal back and even with ten men we were pushing, but then we conceded the third goal. That sums up our situation. We all need to get through it now.” Interim coach Dennis Schmitt: “It was a game of two halves. The way we played after the break was exactly how we wanted to play in the first half, but we were too passive and let Leverkusen have a lot of possession. After going 2-0 down, it was difficult and it was good that we didn’t fall further behind. In the dressing room I called for more aggression. After that we played with much more intensity, got it back to 2-1 and then suffered the next blow with the red card. Still, we showed courage and created chances. It’s frustrating to lose 3-1.”

Mario Götze: “It’s an awful feeling. We’re disappointed. The second half was better today but nevertheless, we have to take small steps and show our basics, and then I’m very confident we’ll start winning matches again. We have to work very hard for that, though. Everyone wants it, everyone’s making the effort. We need to get positive results again and develop that hunger – that’s the key. We’re looking forward to the new coach and also to making a clean mental break for ourselves. Monday is a fresh start.”