Alexander Hahn watched MSV Duisburg’s home victory against SC Verl from the fan block at the Schauinsland-Reisen-Arena. It was a special experience for him.
After the 0-1 defeat in Ulm, Alexander Hahn was still visibly upset. The center back had picked up his fifth yellow card at the Donaustadion and had to watch the top match against SC Verl from the stands a week later.
Ben Schlicke replaced him in MSV Duisburg’s back four. But things went well even without him. Meiderich won 4-2 and remain a force to be reckoned with at home in the 3rd division.
Instead of taking his place in the main stand, the 33-year-old mingled with the active supporters behind the goal in the north stand – not far from the chanting platform. The fans had gathered in the stadium 45 minutes before kick-off to get in the mood for the clash with what is probably the strongest opponent in the league.
“It was unbelievable. I was right in the middle of it and had a lot of fun. I have a lot of respect for what these guys are doing. I’ve lost my voice,” said the captain during the half-time break on “MagentaSport.”
Without their driving force, Duisburg were extremely effective, especially in the first half. A brace from Lex-Tyger Lobinger and goals from Dennis Borkowski and birthday boy Patrick Sussek (26) made sure of the result.
The Meiderich team switched quickly and purposefully, especially after winning the ball high up in the opponent’s half. Jan-Simon Symalla, who returned to the starting lineup, brought a lot of pace to the game. Defensively, MSV ultimately withstood the increasing offensive pressure from Verl.
“The 3rd division is intense and characterized by a lot of tackles. We handled that well,” Hahn praised after the game. With 43 points, the Zebras climbed back to second place and are now two points ahead of SC Verl, who currently occupy the first non-promotion spot. They are now only two points away from their stated goal of staying in the league.
“With 45 points, you’re almost certain to stay in the 3rd division. But we want to win all our games and we’re not afraid of anything,” the veteran made clear. On Saturday in Wiesbaden, the defender will return to central defense.