Despite having a man sent off, SV Werder Bremen were able to take all three points home from Mainz on Sunday evening. Derrick Köhn scored the match-winning goal on his competitive debut for the Green-Whites. A controversial red card for Marco Friedl also influenced the match. Read on for all the post-match reaction from head coach Ole Werner and his team.
Ole Werner: “We didn’t get off to a great start, but then took the lead early on from the spot with our first real chance on goal. We then did well for the remainder of the first half — it’s tough to play in Mainz, as evidenced by their long unbeaten run, and they pressed us hard. Although it might have felt frantic, we had the game under control, but just didn’t play well coming back out at half time. Going a man down then changed the game again. To be able to go on to win the game is testament to the spirit of the team — it was a really cool performance.”
Marvin Ducksch: “Our counter-attacks were strong and we were solid at the back as well. That’s why I believe that it was a deserved win. After my goal, I ran to celebrate with my best friend, as it’s his birthday today and that was my gift to him. We knew what we’d be up against in Mainz and did exactly what we’d set out to do. Although it could have been better in some areas, to be able to win after going down to ten men really shows the spirit we have as a team.”
Jens Stage: “It was a frantic game, with lots of duels and very intense, so it was a good showing from us today. Everyone fought until the end, even after we were down to ten — in a situation like that, sometimes you end up finding extra motivation. We could have scored more goals during the first half, and we defended extremely well in the second half. I’m very proud of the team.”
Derrick Köhn: “For it to be my first Bundesliga game and to score after 125 seconds is definitely a great feeling. Romano Schmid also did well to see me making the run in that moment. It’s just like in a storybook, and I’m delighted for the team. Next week, we have another big game coming up against Bayern.”
