After a strong run, VfL Bochum suffered a surprise defeat against second-to-last Dynamo Dresden. The first half was decisive.
Philipp Hofmann had the best view: when VfL Bochum fell behind 0-2 against Dynamo Dresden in the first 45 minutes, he was sitting on the bench.
“The first half was probably the worst under Uwe Rösler,” said the striker bluntly, trying to explain: “We didn’t really know whether to press or stay compact. From the outside, it looked like we didn’t have a real game plan and were a bit passive.”
This inexplicable first half ultimately proved decisive in the first competitive defeat (1-2) under the new coach. The plan was actually clear.
“The plan was to press forward when the goalkeeper had the ball, just like in the last few games,” said Hofmann. In practice, however, things turned out differently. “We were always a step too late and became too passive. The second goal was also too easy, with Vincent Vermeij alone against four players. That shouldn’t happen.”
Alexander Rossipal, who provided the assist, also had far too much space, as he did for his 1-0 goal. VfL seemed too slow and sluggish in all areas, both physically and mentally.
At least there was a significant improvement in performance after the break. “We played very well and put a lot of pressure on them. We had huge chances and if the penalty had gone in, I think we would have won 4-2 because then things would have really taken off,” said the striker.
Overall, however, the team lacked precision and, in the case of Francis Onyeka’s missed penalty, composure. “Unfortunately, we didn’t have the luck we had in recent weeks. We lost the game in the first half; you can’t blame the guys for the second half,” Hoffmann clarified.
For the first time since October 4, he had to accept another defeat with VfL Bochum. Cause for concern? Not for him: “That’s part of the process. It was also clear that we wouldn’t win every game. The important thing is always the reaction, and that was positive, which makes me feel positive about the coming weeks.”