For almost the entire match, the U21 team displayed remarkable composure – despite a recent run of five games without a win. „Our work off the ball was really good, and we also created some good chances with the ball,“ emphasised Schmitt. A solid defence led to numerous counter-attacking opportunities and frequent numerical advantages in both halves. However, it was also true that these numerical advantages were often not exploited effectively, resulting in a squandered number of chances, as the U21 coach also pointed out to sv98.de. Then, when everything pointed to a goalless draw after the end of regulation time, Baunatal delivered the decisive blow. A corner in the third minute of stoppage time resulted in the winning goal for the home side. „It was brutal, and one of the most painful defeats,“ said Schmitt.
Even though they didn’t get any points, the „nearly best performance of the season“ (in Schmitt’s words) against a well-established top team in the Hessenliga was a positive highlight. „We’re on the right track, and these performances give us confidence. Now we’re looking forward to a home game against Marburg, where we hope to get the best possible points,“ the U21 coach said, already looking ahead. The young Lilies will host VfB 1905 Marburg next Saturday (April 25th, 3pm) on their home turf at the SV 98 youth academy.