96 defeat Leverkusen

After last weeks difficult loss to Borussia Mönchengladbach, 96 responded in perfect fashion with a 1-0 victory over Bayer 04 Leverkusen at AWD-Arena.

Die Roten intense play characterized the day, taking Herr Hecking's words of "showing no fear" to hear and never let the Leverkusen swirling attack get moving. Late addition Steven Cherundolo und Jan Schlaudraff were part of the starting eleven and their impact was notable. After keeping the visitors locked down early, their swirling attack began to get uncorked with Robert Enke denying Stefan Kießling from close range. Just past the half hour 96 found the go-ahead goal with a good linkup of play from Jacek Krzynówek with Jan Schlaudraff pulling the ball back to Arnold Bruggink, with the veteran goalscorer finding the net from eleven metres.

After the break 96 grew confident with Krzynówek und Schlaudraff threatening near the hour but additionally keeping the match well under control. Until the later stages when Leverkusen brought in Toni Kroos for Manuel Friedrich, attempts going forward by the visitors were locked down tightly. With ten minutes remaining Arturo Vidal came close but after that Leverkusen's chances disappeared and the celebration began.