FC Schalke 04 sent out an exclamation mark in the relegation battle with a 5:2 victory over Hertha BSC. The decisive factor was, among other things, the mentality of the Königsblauen.

Based on Marius Bülter’s facial expression after the game, one could not have guessed what emotional fireworks FC Schalke 04 had just set off on the pitch in their 5-2 victory in the relegation thriller over Hertha BSC.

He looked so composed and concentrated when he was interviewed by DAZN. Perhaps emblematic of the focus that his team, with all the passion, also demonstrated in the duel between last and second last. “There was a lot at stake, the pressure was great, but we stood up to it.”

An analysis as cool as the finish on his second goal, when he lofted over the rushing Hertha keeper Oliver Christensen for a 4-1 early decision. “We had better control of the game, ball control in midfield, solved it flat out from the back. That gave us security. On top of that, we didn’t have many chances but took them,” Bülter added.

We were better prepared mentally, knew what was at stake and took it on completely. You could see that.

Kenan Karaman

That was the purely technical part. Teammate Kenan Karaman was responsible for the mental reasons. “We were simply more present,” said the provider of the assist to Simon Terodde’s 3:1 with wide eyes. “We were better prepared mentally, knew what was at stake and took it on completely. You could see that. “

In fact. The Schalke pros threw themselves into every duel, radiating pure determination, resilience and single-mindedness for the entire 90 minutes. Defensively and offensively.

An internal team meeting after the defeat against Hoffenheim probably also helped. “We worked well, analyzed a lot and talked,” Karaman gave insight. “We gave each other our opinions. Everyone took that well. We kept our word and showed that on the pitch. “

While the relief and joy among coaches, players and fans was understandably great on Friday night as they celebrated together after the final whistle, staying in the class is far from being in the bag. The Königsblauen occupy relegation place 16, the lead over the direct relegation place 17 is one, the gap to the saving shore two points – in each case with one more completed game.

Consequently, it’s probably a good thing that Thomas Reis also has Bülter’s cool head in his ranks in the midst of all the emotion. “We have gained self-confidence,” he said soberly. But, “But we also know that we haven’t achieved anything yet and now we still have six final games to go. “