2nd Bundesliga
The second division game between Hansa Rostock and FC St. Pauli is one of the most explosive games in the league – but not only because of the opposing fan camps. Because for both of them it is also about a lot in terms of sport.
It was nothing when it came to regaining the top of the table in the 2nd Bundesliga: FC St. Pauli lost 1-0 at Hansa Rostock on Saturday evening. The Hamburgers had nothing to counter Nico Neidhart’s goal (59th).
Darmstadt 98, who won 3:1 against Holstein Kiel, remains the leader of the table. And Rostock? Hansa celebrated the fourth win in a row and can slowly but surely get rid of all relegation worries.
That’s how the game went
The people of Rostock were already celebrating in the third minute: Simon Rhein scored in the margin to make it supposedly 1-0. But referee Benjamin Brand looked again at John Verhoek’s duel beforehand and ruled a foul. Shortly before the break, St. Pauli keeper Nikola Vasilj prevented the Hansa lead with a brilliant save after a deflected shot by Neidhart (40′).
After a cross from Calogero Rizzuto, the Hamburg goalkeeper couldn’t get the ball and Neidhart pushed it over the line. At that point, Hansa were the more active side that deserved the lead. The guests then increased their attacking efforts and came up with a few chances.
Nico Neidhart (59th) then scored the decisive goal for the Rostock team, who after their fourth win in a row are almost certain to stay up in the league. The advantage over the relegation place is now nine points.