Klaus Allofs laughed: “Torsten and Clemens really had one another on the hunt...” The German international duo, who were making their pre-season friendly debuts, used their time in the first half of the match to exploit the right flank and get each other working overtime. The general manager, and former professional player, knows just how much fun it can be when you get back out on the pitch for a friendly game after a tough week in training camp: “It was clear to see that not everything worked out perfectly for the two of them,” summed up head coach Thomas Schaaf.
“We were all very tired and so, that considered, it was ok,” remarked Torsten Frings. He said himself that he was feeling quite good, although there is no question that he has some way to go to reach top form. Frings went on to comment on the complete team performance, which was generally seen as satisfactory: “We created a lot of chances but just didn’t take them all. That needs to be improved upon.” Klaus Allofs saw some positive signs too and Thomas Schaaf noted: “We did well in creating chances. We got a chance to see what needs to be worked on and what is already solid.”
The most important factors are: Seventh win in succession, four goals and none conceded as well as plenty of imagination in trying out new variations. Klaus Allofs concluded by stating: “Rostock, Trabzonspor and Sofia will be very different issues.”