Ralf Fährmann: Happy with the win, realistic about the situation

The Royal Blues managed to stifle Augsburg with a passionate performance, not allowing many chances for the opposition. And when the Fuggerstädter did get chances, Schalke were able to rely on their ‘keeper. In the 24th minute, Ralf Fährmann managed to snuff out a dangerous opportunity with his left foot to deny Marco Richter. Ten minutes after half-time, he got a hand to Ruben Vargas’ shot at the near post. Quarter of an hour before the end, it was Richter who was thwarted by Fährmann again, this time from a spectacular bicycle kick. “I am happy that I was able to do my job,” said Fährmann of that final save, a terrific diving stop which denied Richter of a goal of the month contender.

Fährmann an “important anchor” for Grammozis

Dimitrios Grammozis described Fährmann, who also dealt well with several aerial balls to go along with his saves, as an “important anchor” in the match against Augsburg. “I am really happy that he put in such a good performance,” said the Schalke head coach, who opted for Fährmann between the sticks due to his consistency and the impression he had made in training.

Fährmann’s delight with the clean sheet and the win is clear to see. “We are in a really difficult phase right now so such a positive result helps a lot,” said the shot-stopper. Suat Serdar’s early goal in the fourth minute gave the team confidence; the team has fallen behind too often in recent weeks and months but this week they got off to a flying start and took the lead early on. “We stayed positive, gained some confidence and had some good moments going forward.” The result was one to enjoy after he and his teammates managed to see out the lead for the full 90 minutes – unlike the last game against Augsburg, when Schalke conceded a late equaliser to draw 2-2. Fährmann, however, doesn’t want euphoria to take over: “It helps, but the bottom line is that we know the severity of the situation.”