Ex-Lion goalkeeper Michael Hoffmann explains in an interview what is particularly important for TSV 1860 Munich in the promotion race of the 3rd league.
Munich - Wednesday's results showed just how badly the 3-1 win in Uerdingen was for the Lions. Except for Haching (1: 3 against Braunschweig), all competitors were able to make up for it, a historically tight race for promotion to the second division remains. "I am happy that we immediately found our way back to success after the defeat against Würzburg," said 1860 coach Michael Köllner. Can the lions stay with it? Tomorrow's home game against Hansa Rostock (2 p.m.) will show. We spoke to an optimist: ex-keeper Michael Hofmann (47). The BR expert has sixty firmly on the promotion sheet. He explains why in the interview.
Mr. Hofmann, what went through your head when you saw the line-up against Uerdingen?
I was skeptical. Eight new players - that was a big risk that Koellner went there. The response to a defeat would have been violent. After the first half, I was no longer optimistic like most spectators. But: the one who wins is right. In the end, Köllner did everything right, changed quality, scored three points. It fits the picture that my Franconian compatriot Kristian Böhnlein (in future in Schweinfurt, Germany) shot the equalizer. Nobody had expected the Böhni.
What are the lessons from the game?
Hofmann: First of all, that Sixty can also be successful with a more counter-oriented style of play. You need this flexibility in the special situation with the English weeks. The squad is broad, the quality goes well beyond the first eleven players. Köllner can always unpack someone. That gives hope for the finish.
What will make the difference?
Hofmann: Now it depends on the killer instinct in a positive sense. There has never been a situation like this, there is no team with a two point cut, the burden is enormous for everyone. Phrase or not, but now as a professional you have to focus on the next game. Only Rostock counts.
Hansa comes to Giesing with two wins.
Hofmann: It will be a 50:50 thing again. The Rostockers have an excellent defense. It will be all the more important not to fall behind. I like to see Aaron Berzel in central defense, that's a real leader. It's also good that Sascha Mölders is there again. Tim Rieder (5th yellow) have to compensate.
Your prognosis for advancement?
Hofmann: Five wins, then sixty will definitely be in the relegation. I even think that they can do it directly with Duisburg. Rostock, Ingolstadt or Braunschweig play relegation. But now comes Saturday.
Interview: Ludwig Krammer