Hoffenheim’s Ilzer and Philipp content after snatching point

Hoffenheim’s head coach and goalkeeper expressed their feelings after the 1-1 with VfB Stuttgart.

Hoffenheim’s head coach Christian Ilzer was content with his night’s work as the Sinsheim club salvaged a point against VfB Stuttgart.

“We can live very well with the point against a strong opponent. Stuttgart gave us a lot in the first half hour, which we had to solve. 

“In the second half we adjusted a few things that worked well. In the end we could have won. 

“Stuttgart were closer to 2-0, but thanks to Luca Philipp we were always in the game. Today we are happy with the point,” Ilzer noted. 

Shot-stopper Philipp has done a fine job of late as he continues to deputise for the injured Oliver Baumann. The 24-year-old was pleased with his performance on the night. 

“I’m very happy that I was able to gather a lot of balls and help the team with my saves. 

“If you look at the game as a whole, the point is fine. In the first half, we didn’t do enough, we weren’t active enough and reacted too slowly. 

“In the second half, we did much better and deserved the point. It was our goal to take something away from here,” Philipp concluded. 

Hoffenheim will prepare for a trip to Bochum next weekend. With only 7 points separating the teams, Ilzer will be hoping to avoid being dragged into a relegation battle.