Hoeneß hits back at critics after Stuttgart win

The pressure was mounting on VfB Stuttgart after just one win in their first three league matches and a shaky cup showing in Braunschweig.

Sebastian Hoeneß’s side responded to their critics perfectly on Friday evening by beating St. Pauli 2-0 at Neckarstadion, easing early tension.
 

Speaking to Sky after the match, Hoeneß said: “That’s how we want to play, it was a deserved win for us. It all fitted together. We could have made it easier for ourselves if we had been more clinical.

He praised his team’s first-half display as “very clear” and highlighted the importance of scoring just before the break: “It’s important to go into the dressing room with that kind of boost.”

More than the result, however, the 42-year-old was irritated by the noise surrounding his team after a mixed start. “Everything escalates too quickly in all directions. The balance isn’t right, it all goes too fast. We’ve had four matchdays, won two and lost two, and we’re in the second round of the cup. For that, the unrest was far too big.”

He stressed that Stuttgart remain a young squad that needs time to grow: “But we also have structure and a base. That all needs to be brought together, and wins help with that. We’ve shown what is possible.”

VfB now turn their attention to the opening Europa League clash against Celta Vigo on Thursday.