VfL Bochum earned their first away points of the season against FC Augsburg. In the new year, they now have it in their own hands to leave the relegation places.

It was a tough fight that VfL Bochum had to deliver at FC Augsburg on the last matchday before the winter break. But after 90 minutes, Thomas Letsch’s team was rewarded for the first time this season.

Early on, it seemed as if the VfL were once again dogged by bad luck. Christopher Antwi-Adjei missed two top-class chances in the first half. But that didn’t faze the Bochum side on this day. “I told him after the first chance: You’ll get another one,” explained striker Philipp Hofmann after the game. “That’s how it turned out.”

After a long ball from Konstantinos Stafylidis, Antwi-Adjei was on the spot and volleyed the ball over the line with a bit of luck. It was a great relief for the provider of the assist. “It was easier for us at home because of the fans and the incredible atmosphere. Away games have been a big headache for us so far,” explained the Greek. Accordingly, this away treble was important.

Hofmann: “We’re going into the break on a positive note.

Defensively, it still needed a fair amount of luck when Mergim Berisha shot a penalty over the goal, but nothing more was to come of it. “Everyone fought really well. We’re going into the break on a positive note,” said Hofmann, praising his team-mates.

A small glimpse into the new year was allowed, however, despite the long upcoming break in the season. On the first matchday after the break, Hertha BSC is the guest at the Ruhrstadion. The Berliners are currently only one point ahead of VfL in 15th place, so a win in Bochum would at least give them the chance to leave the direct relegation zone.

“That has to be our goal. Now we can prepare well again. The break is good for us. Then we can continue to work on ourselves and go into the home game against Hertha stronger,” Hofmann announced. Until then, however, VfL’s focus will be off the football pitch. The annual general meeting is scheduled for Tuesday. Afterwards, the team will go on a well-deserved holiday. dz with gp.