Preview: Frankfurt VS HSV

By: Evan | May 23rd, 2009

First off, before I talk about our inevitable victory, a few formalities. My name’s Evan, and I’m the new bogger here at The Offside. I’ll be helping Chris keep up with all the news relating to our Rothosen.

So as I’m sure we all know, this is a must win game for HSV. As Martin Jol said: “Only a win will do.” Luckily, a win is certainly possible.After the disappointing loss to Koln last week (which will never be spoken of, ever again), we need a great game against Frankfurt, and help from relegation battlers Gladbach, to secure 5th place and European football.

The Bundesliga Table

Last game of the season. As Wolfsburg, Munchen, Stuttgart, and Hertha fight for the title, our Rothosen fight for 5th. Not quite as spectacular, but important none the less. Can you believe that it was only 4 weeks ago that we were in the race for ~~the~~ a treble?

So, for us the even have a chance of playing in the Europa League, we need a win over Frankfurt. To guarantee it, we need Monchengladbach to win, or a minimum of 23 goals against Frankfurt.

“We know what is required of us, it is crucial that we win on Saturday. I am sure we will reach the European League next season, because I don’t believe Gladbach will lose. We have had a full week of training this week for the first time in an age and the mood in the camp is good and very focused.” said Jarolim

Frankfurt
So, Frankfurt. Not doing the best, but certainly safe from relegation with 33 points. Coach Friedhelm Funkel will be leaving for greener pastures next season, following a 5 year stint with the club. They’re not doing the best, having conceded 7 goals in the past 2 matches, and have not won a game since their victory over Monchengladbach in April. But Funkel will definitely be looking to leave on a high note.

Last 5 games:
Bochum 2-0 Frankfurt
Frankfurt 0-5 Werder Bremen
Hannover 1-1 Frankfurt
Frankfurt 0-2 Dortmund
Stuttgart 2-0 Frankfurt

Breaking News!
After being injured for roughly 16 months, Dutch winger Romeo Castelen has recovered. Castelen joined HSV in 2007, and played 13 games before his injury. He looks set to appear on the bench, and could even gain some minutes.

Possible Line-ups

Rost
Boateng, Gravgaard, Mathijsen, Aogo
Jarolim, Tavares
Olic, Pitroipa, Guerrero
Petric

Fenin
Fink, Meier, Korkmaz
Chris, Inamoto
Ochs, Russ, Bellaid, Spycher
Proll

Predictions
Game: 2-0 HSV
Goals: Guerrero (33), Petric (54)
MotM Petric

Finally, 2 great goals in previous Frankfurt matches: