Andrich reflects on derby joy, redemption header and family atmosphere

Here are the comments from Robert Andrich after the Rheinderby win against Köln.

Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Robert Andrich was in a reflective and upbeat mood after the Rheinderby win over 1. FC Köln, speaking about the special atmosphere inside the BayArena, his decisive header, and his own high standards.

“I wouldn’t have thought it could be so nice to have the kids in the stadium,” Andrich said. “It’s an amazing feeling to score a goal, win a derby and then be able to celebrate with your family.”

The midfielder doubled Leverkusen’s lead in the second half, making amends for a missed opportunity before the break. Andrich admitted the earlier miss had played on his mind. “I definitely had to score the second header, because I missed one in the first half,” he explained. “That one has to go in. I was really annoyed with myself, but at least I was able to make up for it in the second half.”

Despite his goal, Andrich remained self-critical, acknowledging that there is still room for improvement in front of goal. “I still need to work on my attacking headers,” he added. “You have to say it like it is. I’m often involved up front, so I could and should score more goals.”

With his header sealing a convincing derby victory, Andrich’s contribution underlined Leverkusen’s dominance on the night – and capped off an evening made even more memorable by sharing the moment with his family in the stands.