Praise and criticism after 7-0 win against Lohne

In the first half of Saturday’s friendly against Blau-Weiß Lohne, the Royal Blues „played some free-flowing football, were purposeful in their attacks and didn’t allow their opponents an inch.“ Frank Kramer, however, believes his side weren’t as effective after the break: “It was a bit tougher in the second half, we weren’t as tidy and we made some mistakes,” said the gaffer, who made eleven changes for the second 45, just as he did against VfB Hüls.

Goalkeeper Justin Heekeren, who made his first start for Schalke, analysed the performance in a similar fashion: “We moved the ball well in the first half and switched play nicely, which made life difficult for our opponents,” said the 21-year-old. It was precisely these good passages of play that led to the goals in the first half. Although it was more difficult for Schalke after the break, the goalkeeper’s overall assessment of the match was still positive: “It was a good test for us to try and come together as a team.”

Kramer made it clear that it was good to be tested under these conditions. According to the boss, it is important that as many players as possible get the chance to present themselves during pre-season. “On the one hand it is important for the players to show what they can do, but on the other hand, it is important to work as a team and develop together, in order to find out what works and what doesn’t.”

Kramer also believes that Danny Latza, who scored two goals on Saturday, made a good account of himself. “He simply proved that he is a really good player. He just needs the fitness to be able to consistently perform at the highest level in the middle of the park.” The boss also praised Florent Mollet, who scored in the 28th minute to make it 4-0: “Florent was dynamic and lively and always offered the run from deep. He showed that he is a strong back-up for us.”