“We need to be more determined and consistent”

Bochum’s experienced coach shared his disappointment despite a solid performance against Europa League quarter-finalists.

Since the arrival of Dieter Hecking, Bochum managed to surprise Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig. Die Blauen also had a chance to do the same against Eintracht Frankfurt, but they fell short because of two goals conceded early in the first-half.

“Of course, I’m disappointed. We started the game well, and had two huge chances before conceding the 0-1,” said the 60-year-old coach. “We need to be more determined and consistent because the two goals we conceded were two gifts, even if Eintracht then played the situations superbly.

“We came back well in the second half and created chances – even if they weren’t clear-cut once. Eintracht missed the chance to seal the deal, and it was a thrilling football match after the 1-2. We put up a passionate fight and fought for every meter. That was good. Frankfurt’s keeper made an outstanding save at the end when everyone thought the ball would be in the net. It’d have been a fair draw against an absolutely top team.”

Heidenheim closed the gap with Bochum within a point after their 3-1 win over bottom-placed Holstein Kiel in Sunday’s second match. After the international break, Bochum will travel to defending champions Bayer Leverkusen before home games against Stuttgart and in-form Augsburg.