a good start and we WILL SURVIVE

It was not going to be easy climbing up the table and although a loss does not improve our position, it is very obvious Hans Meyer has re-tooled Gladbach into a much tougher squad. Using strong defending tactics, three abreast in the back-line and a sweeper, VfB were held back for the majority of the match before defeating Gladbach 2-0. The painful defending that marked the Hinrunde was absent and is now was a strong, proud team.

Gladbach started with strong tactical plan with new signings Paul Stalteri, Logan Bailly and Tomáš Galásek in the lineup. The Czech veteran provided immediate leadership and a steady hand in structuring play and movement as was the cause of much of the quality play. Gladbach started with confidence as Rob Friend tested Jens Lehmann early but maybe it was a day for veterans as he kept his goal clear. The first half ended without many significant attempts but Gladbach look in relative control and displayed confidence. The start of the second half started much of the same and with the match appearing like it was headed to a scoreless draw, Ciprian Marica’s effort went off Roel Brouwers and into the net, giving VfB the lead with twenty-three minutes remaining. Forced to abandon his strategy, Hans Meyer called upon Oliver Neuville, Marco Marin and Roberto Colautti to find the needed goal but they could not summon the necessary strike. Mario Gómez added the second goal from close range with five minutes remaining and the match ended 2-0 in favour of VfB.

A good effort but one that still needs to be improved upon as we face 1899 Hoffenheim next week.