“That’s what you want to see from Mainz 05“

The 05ers could’ve got more out of the game against Hoffenheim – everyone agreed on this following the draw away at TSG 1899 Hoffenheim. Nevertheless, FSV had to settle for a point in the end despite having the better chances, but they can once again build on the performance. Mainz can also take additional optimism from the comebacks of two important players who have been sorely missed for a long time.

Martin Schmidt: “We feel that we deserved more given the big chances we had. Hoffenheim didn’t have a single big chance in the second half other than the goal. Nevertheless, it’s still a point and we avoided defeat for the fourth consecutive game. That sounds good, but the relegation battle also keeps going following a good game.”

Jonny Burkardt: “It was unbelievable. I was very focused during the game and when I came on, and I tried to ignore everything going on around me. I only really realised after the game how nice is it to be back playing after such a long time. I’ve been able to participate fully recently, so I was hoping that I might get my chance today. My girlfriend and my family were there and that made my day today because they’ve always supported me in the last few months. We now want to build on today’s performance. It was a great performance and it gives us confidence – that’s what you want to see from Mainz 05.”

Marco Richter: “It was a good game and it felt great to be on the pitch. We’re moving in the right direction. Of course, I’m also happy to have scored first goal for Mainz 05. However, I would’ve preferred us to have taken home all three points. I think that I’ve struggled a bit in the first few months here, but I’ve done alright recently. I want to keep that up as I’d like to put in many more good performances for Mainz 05.”

Silvan Widmer: “I’m disappointed that we didn’t win because we played well and had lots of chances. We played some really good stuff and fought hard too. It was definitely also a very important moment for me personally. I felt good and stuck at it. Jonny’s comeback was an emotional moment – he has worked very hard and I’m really pleased for him. He’s almost like a new signing and he’ll carry us forward. The back four worked well and the coach set us up well for the game today.”