Simon Terodde: It is important that we have laid down a marker

“We were the better team over the whole game,” said Simon Terodde looking back to the clash against Mainz. The only criticism from the striker was that the team were unable to make it 2-0. The best opportunity to do this fell to Marius Bülter five minutes before the end of normal time. After exchanging passes with Dominick Drexler, Schalke’s number eleven found himself through on goal, rounded Mainz goalkeeper Robin Zentner but was only able to hit the right post. “It doesn’t matter if you win 1-0,” said Terodde about his strike partner’s goal and added with a smile that there will be a few jokes at Bülter’s expense.

Thank to a strong performance, the Knappen deservedly won against Mainz, who have been strong away from home up to this point. After improvements against Freiburg and Bremen respectively which were not rewarded with points, the players were finally able to celebrate together win the fans again. “The fans carried us to the win. For us as a team, and for the whole club it is good to get three points,” said a relieved Terodde, who also shifted onto the further development of the team. “We didn’t just sit back for the win, instead it was a highly deserved three points. It is important to lay down a marker with this!”

A clear division of roles and responsibilities on the pitch has been good for the team, emphasised the 34-year-old. Every single player was worthy of praise, said Terrode, reserving special mention for Henning Matriciani, who put in a “super strong performance” in central defence.

Body on the line to get three points

The Knappen put everything into the game up right up until the final whistle to get three points, including putting their bodies on the line. Edimilson Fernandes took a freekick in the 79th minute, with Terodde jumping in the wall and receiving the ball flush in the face before falling to the floor. “We all knew in the wall that getting your head out the way is not allowed,” said Terodde. “Then the ball goes straight into my nose. Unfortunately it was me who took the hit, but you’d happily take that to stop a goal.”

On Thursday, the game will be analysed together with the coaching staff, as part of the preparation for the next game at the VELTINS Arena. This Saturday (12/11, 18:30 CET), league leaders Bayern München visit Gelsenkirchen. The Knappen want to use all their strengths in this final game before the World Cup and winter break, and build on the performance of the last few games. “And after that we will then have time to collect ourselves,” said Terodde. His aim is clear: “Also pick up points after the winter break!”