ETB Schwarz-Weiß Essen started the 2024 season with a 1:1 draw against TVD Velbert. ETB coach Damian Apfeld was very annoyed with the referee’s performance.
ETB Schwarz-Weiß Essen’s winter break in the Oberliga Niederrhein ended a week earlier than their league rivals. The Essen side hosted TVD Velbert in the catch-up match on matchday 16. Both teams ended up drawing 1:1.
ETB coach Damian Apfeld was particularly pleased with his team’s performance in the first half hour: “In terms of intensity, sharp passing and space allocation, we were in the game exactly as we had imagined”.
The Black & Whites consequently rewarded themselves with the lead, but then failed to build on it. “What I missed a bit was that we had to make it 2:0 at this stage. To simply get more confidence in the game. Then things happen that shouldn’t happen. TVD Velbert adapted to the circumstances, took the game better and then we got the equalizer,” said an annoyed Apfeld.
After the changeover, Apfeld saw an “even” and “combative” game that ultimately did not find a winner. Nevertheless, he was satisfied – at least as far as his own performance was concerned: “I have to praise the team for this first performance of the new year against a good team. But who I can’t praise is the team of referees.”
The 37-year-old A-license holder did not agree with some of the referees’ decisions: “That was a bit below par. We are not given a penalty. Guiliano Zimmerling is pulled off his feet three times and nothing happens. Timo Brauer slides completely into Guiliano’s legs from behind, hits him on the calf and nothing happens.”
Newcomers fit in well
In contrast, Apfeld was more pleased with the first competitive outing of the two new signings David Leinweber and Nico Lucas: “Both did a good job. David played at left back, an unfamiliar position for him. He deserves a big compliment for that. Nico is the strategist who sets the rhythm. He was somewhat handicapped by an early yellow card. But both made a very good debut here at the Uhlenkrug.”
While TVD Velbert continue their campaign next Sunday against FC Büderich, ETB must return to action on Friday evening. The Black & Whites will then face Union Nettetal. “The performance against TVD was encouraging. It makes you want more. So we want to get the three-pointer in our first away game of the year on Friday. We’re going to have a great week of training and rock the game in Nettetal,” announced Apfeld with an emphasis on fighting