Alex Král: It was a step in the right direction

“It was a shame my goal didn’t count,” said Král, who was reminded of the previous away game at Hertha BSC. “There as well we got the lead through Marius Bülter, but it was ruled out. It’s always a bitter feeling because when you go in front your confidence increases as well.”

The defensive midfielder didn’t sulk after the goal was ruled out, however, going on to take two dangerous shots – of which one went just the wrong side of the left goalpost and the other being saved by compatriot Jiri Pavlenka. “We had some good chances,” Král said in summary, who may have felt his side deserved a point. “But in football, only goals count. Werder scored two, and we only scored one – that’s why we were defeated,” the Royal Blues’ number 30 commented.

Energy felt on the pitch

Král explained that his side were definitely in the game from kick-off. “We pressed well, the coach set us up positively. I felt the energy out on the pitch; our fans’ support was perfect once more. In my view, this game was another step forward.” It is therefore frustrating that the Knappen were unable to reward the fans.

Despite the current streak of results, he reiterates the importance of maintaining self-belief. “We have to score in our upcoming matches. The chances were there, and they will be again,” the Czechia international commented. “We’ve got to keep believing in ourselves. I’m convinced that, with a similar energy as against Werder, we can win our upcoming home game against Mainz.”