DFB-Pokal: Schlager celebrates lacklustre victory on Werder debut

Werder Bremen secures a 3-0 victory against LSK Hansa in the first round of the DFB-Pokal during Alexander Schlager's competitive debut.

For the visitors, returnee Füllkrug features, and other Austrians are also in the squad. Friedl starts, Grüll is initially on the bench but gets playing time from the 73rd minute.

Early Lead for the Favourites

The afternoon starts as planned for the favourites. After a significantly more dangerous beginning, Werder takes the lead after just eleven minutes. Stage scores an early header from a corner by Deman.

Just two minutes later, Füllkrug misses a great chance for a 2-0 lead. Even after about half an hour (33rd minute), he cannot change the score. Despite an early deficit, the fifth-division team remains compact. Werder struggles to find a gap despite significantly more possession.

However, offensive actions from the home team are mostly absent. Thus, Werder heads into the dressing room with a 1-0 lead.

Füllkrug Converts Penalty

In the 52nd minute, there is a moment of excitement: Muhlack fouls Stage, and a penalty is awarded. Füllkrug converts it into the bottom left corner.

Shortly after (61st minute), Njinmah has a chance for the 3-0, but it is prevented by Muhlauf on the line. Schlager's small blunder in the 66th minute is rectified by teammate Deman. He clears before Weishaupt.

A few minutes after Grüll's substitution, he sets up Reis, who scores the third and final goal of the day. Werder thus unconvincingly advances to the next round.