2-2 in Wattenscheid – S04 held to a draw in third friendly

Schubert makes Schalke debut

Two days after the 20-1 victory against Bottrop, David Wagner made six changes to his starting eleven, including the introduction of debutant Markus Schubert in goal. Guido Burgstaller missed out due to a tooth operation, but will return to training next week.

Kutucu puts Schalke ahead

From the very first whistle, it was clear that this encounter in front of 8000 spectators in the Lohreidestadion would be a far greater test than Schalke’s first two pre-season friendlies. Nevertheless, the Bundesliga side took an early lead after Amine Harit set up Ahmed Kutucu who converted into the far corner in just the fourth minute.

Schalke continued to dominate proceedings and came close to doubling their lead through Benito Raman in the 14th minute. The game soon went flat, however, with two Wattenscheid chances thwarted by Markus Schubert the only notable incidents until the half hour mark, when Kutucu, Harit and Raman all came close to a second Schalke goal, but the Royal Blues in their brand new white away jerseys took a narrow one-goal lead into the half-time break.

Skrzybski scores, Buckmaier responds

The Knappen began the second half as they had the first, albeit taking a little longer to create the first clear cut chance. In the 55th minute, that chance ended up in the back of the net courtesy of Steven Skrzybski’s left foot. Just 60 seconds later, the hosts responded: a hard tackle on Matija Nastasic at the back, deemed fair by the referee, resulted in a two-v-one situation against S04 keeper Michael Langer, where Hirschberger squared the ball for Nico Buckmaier, who tapped into an open net (56’).

Kaya hold his nerve

In the 65th minute, Schalke substitute Sandro Plechaty made an instant impact with an inviting cross for Steven Skrzybski, whose first-time effort flew over the bar. Four minutes later, SG Wattenscheid equalised – Güngör Kaya found himself through one-on-one and slotted into the corner from 13 yards.

Kenny also celebrates his Schalke debut

Schalke’s intense training programme began to take its toll on the players – the game became more and more balanced as a result. In the 77th minute, Jonjoe Kenny was brought on to make his debut.

In the closing stages, Schalke started to threaten again, Berkan Firat and Steven Skrzybski’s efforts both too close to the keeper. The final whistle blew with the score at 2-2.

Mini training camp and reunion with Ralf Fährmann

Next week, Schalke will complete a short training camp in Herzlake (16th – 19th July). On Friday evening, the boys will be reunited with Ralf Fährmann in Lotte for a friendly against Norwich City. Kick-off is at 18:30 CEST.