Borussia’s U19s started their run of pre-season friendlies with an unlucky 2-1 defeat away to senior Oberliga side Victoria Charholz. “We seemed to have 75-80% possession but were unable to take several high-quality chances,” said a not at all dissatisfied head coach Mike Tullberg, who added with a smile: “I didn’t forbid the boys from scoring goals.”

The new-look Borussia produced some fine link-up play against their physically superior hosts but lacked purpose and decisiveness with their finishing. “We’ve focused on defence in training so far and allowed Clarholz few opportunities from open play,” said Tullberg, who was rather satisfied with the defending. Both goals that were conceded came from set-pieces. Alex Nizolek had temporarily levelled the scores at 1-1.

Tullberg rang the changes at the break and handed playing time to almost the entire squad. “The friendly fulfilled its purpose. Every one of the lads got 45 minutes to showcase themselves. It was decent all in all,” said Tullberg, whose first impressions were entirely positive.

The next pre-season friendly will take place in Brackel on Saturday. Viktoria Köln will be the opponents (kick-off 13:00 CET). The team will head off to their training camp in Schwäbisch Hall next week. (wiwi)