“The job’s not done yet”

TSG HOFFENHEIM 1-2 Mainz 05

Niko Bungert: “That was a big step forwards. That was our third Bundesliga win in a row and things are looking very good for us. We still have important games ahead, though. The job’s not done yet and we’re not going to sit back now. We approach every game – whether in the Bundesliga or in Europe – with 100% commitment. You can feel a sense of relief, though. It was remarkable how the team, after a week of three wins and then the international break, came out today with complete focus again. That doesn’t happen by itself. You mustn’t let yourself be tempted into giving things away, and we handled that really well. We played very professionally from the start, took the lead, and unfortunately conceded the equaliser. We didn’t let that unsettle us, though. We had a good team talk at half time, which led to an even better second half, and we deservedly won against a top team.”

Phillip Tietz: “I went through a difficult period which has affected me. I measure myself by the goals I score – it’s what I’m paid to do. I’ve been thinking lots and working with the coaches. I’m just so pleased that I was able to score twice today and regain my confidence. The main thing is that we got all three points and I’m just glad I was able to help the team with that. I’m extremely happy that today turned out so well.”

Daniel Batz: “There are still six games to go which means 18 points up for grabs. We’re happy to have won today, because it wasn’t easy. Huge compliments to the team. We started very well and scored a great goal to make it 1–0. We had some problems as it got more hectic, which is exactly what Hoffenheim wanted. There were a lot of throw-ins, corners and set pieces which we had to defend. Then we conceded the equaliser and told ourselves at halftime that we needed to stay calmer in possession and focus on our own game. We did that really well. The second goal was also excellent. Of course, we had a bit of luck with Burger hitting the post, but right now that’s going our way. That’s why we’re happy to have taken three points here today. Phillip got his reward today and is deservedly the match-winner.”