Post match report
10.12.17
Wolfsburg behind us, next up Frankfurt
A midweek fixture and two home games – Markus Gisdol reflected on the draw against Wolfsburg and gave his thoughts ahead of Tuesday’s Frankfurt clash.
The Rothosen will finish off the first half of the season with two games in one week. “The boys have recovered after the Wolfsburg match and will train one more time before taking on Frankfurt,” said HSV head coach Gisdol. Sunday: regeneration, Monday: training, Tuesday: matchday. It’s time to kick on for Hamburg following a positive home streak with seven points from the past three games (six goals for, one against).
Markus Gisdol gave his thoughts on…
… the draw against Wolfsburg: “We had a concrete game plan for the game. We wanted to be solid in defence and dynamic up front. It was a strong performance – remember that Wolfsburg came off the back of a 3-0 win against Mönchengladbach. It was just a shame about the result. We deserved the win but were lacking in efficiency because the chances were there for us. It just wasn’t to be.”
… the third consecutive clean sheet: “It’s very impressive and our strong defence is down to how organised we are on the pitch. It’s only possible because the players challenge for every ball. They’re hugely committed in every game. Our central midfield is strong and we have good strength in our central defence with Mavraj and Papadopoulos. Mathenia completes that – he contributes to our strong record.”
… the youth in the team: “The young players are doing really well at the moment. Fiete Arp has been really solid and shown strength that belies his tender years. He always presents a goal threat. Fiete is developing steadily and it’s very positive. He spent half a year playing with the U18s remember, but he’s a good influence on the team and on the whole city.”
… the squad: “Bobby Wood missed the Wolfsburg game with a knee injury. We’ll decide over the course of Monday whether he plays against Frankfurt or not. Albin Ekdal made his comeback on the weekend and could definitely start tomorrow. I haven’t picking the starting 11 yet. Everyone is playing well at the moment and we’ve got a large group of players to choose from, but because we have two games this week the team will be switched up a bit.”
… the Frankfurt game: “Frankfurt are the best team away from home after Bayern, conceding the second fewest goals in the league. Based on that alone, it’s clearly going to be tough. Frankfurt usually play with five at the back. They’re solid in defence and break quickly. We’ll have to be patient and be wary of the counter attack. It will be an interesting game.”