By Paul Gorgas
Hertha presents themselves once again in a first-class manner – but some Berlin fans who traveled with them were underground!
In the 2-1 draw in Wolfsburg in the last game of the season, some of the supporters of the Bundesliga relegated team made an ugly appearance. The game has only been running for a few minutes when some of the 2,800 fans who have traveled along ignite several smoke pots, firecrackers and even rockets.
Some of the Pyros land on the lawn, referee Benjamin Cortus has to interrupt the game for around four minutes.
Because the block can hardly be calmed down, even Hertha coach Pal Dardai marches into the curve together with striker Jessic Ngankam and talks to the fans. Eventually, the mood settles a bit – there is no organized support from the fans.
Hertha fans ignite pyrotechnics. The game had to be stopped Photo: Swen Pförtner/dpa
Later, objects are thrown onto the field, including a toilet seat. A fire extinguisher is also misused.
And: The fans settle accounts with the players and those responsible for the horror season. With the kick-off, banners are unfurled in the block, reading: “Millions collected, our club disgraced – mercenaries on the field and in the club: piss off!”
Suat Serdar surrounded by Hertha von Wolfsburg Photo: City Press
But football is also played – and how: After the early lead by Wolfsburg’s Jakub Kaminski (2nd minute), Hertha keeper Tjark Ernst kept the Berliners in the game with several saves on his Bundesliga debut.
Then coach Dardai changes the game at half-time: Joker Ibrahim Maza completes an attack over Lucas Tousart to make it 1-1 (55th) – his debut goal for the pros. Maza (17) is now Hertha’s youngest Bundesliga goalscorer.
Wolfsburg goalkeeper Koen Casteels tries in vain to reach for the ball, but Marco Richter’s shot finds its way into the goal and Hertha wins Photo: City Press
Then Hertha turns the game: Marco Richter flicks the ball into the far corner after a free kick (68′). The Berliners say goodbye to the Bundesliga with a win. In addition to Ernst, Pascal Klemens and Tony Rölke are also celebrating their professional debuts.