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It was an exciting and memorable season that came down to the last match and 1 point from avoiding relegation. Arguably the weakest overall squad in the league, most did not give Schalke a chance to stay in the top division. While those doubters were ultimately correct, Die Knappen fought and clawed for every point this season.
Coach Spero had this to say,
"This season was great fun but sadly did not end how we would have liked. We knew it would be difficult if we were not able to secure safety after match day 40 as our final two were against that Banks brothers who we have not done well against. In fact, I forget the opponent but there was a match toward there end where we gave up a lead and settled for a draw, at the time I thought those points could come back to haunt us.
Heading into round 41 we clung to a slim 1 point margin over Sociedad. With German rivals Bayern visiting, I knew we needed to try and grab an early lead then defend. The initial plan worked as we took a shock 1-0 lead due to coming out attacking to the surprise of JB. Only to be out coached when Bayern played E to our C, giving them TA which was too much to overcome.
Round 42 had us heading to Italy to face Juventus, needing a point to secure safety. This time we felt AB would want to attack and try to over power us, so the counter attacks was the way. We almost pulled it off...so close.
Meanwhile Freddie and Sociedad never let up, drawing level on points and over taking us on goal differential. Congrats to Freddie on a well earned finish.
I hope the supporters enjoyed the season and are proud of our efforts. It wasn't always pretty but we did everything we could with what we had available. Facing higher quality sides nearly every match, our best strategy was being unpredictable. Judging by some of the post match posts we were successful in putting a scare into some of the big clubs even if we ended up losing the match. It was fun not having any pressure because we were always expected to lose. I myself was surprised at some of the results. At the end I hope Schalke earned some respect at the least. I do think toward the end we did get a little too conservative which hurt us."
Rumors are the gaffer may end up staying in the EFL with interest from other clubs. If not, he has expressed that he intends to be back at the helm of Schalke fighting for promotion.
Coach Spero had this to say,
"This season was great fun but sadly did not end how we would have liked. We knew it would be difficult if we were not able to secure safety after match day 40 as our final two were against that Banks brothers who we have not done well against. In fact, I forget the opponent but there was a match toward there end where we gave up a lead and settled for a draw, at the time I thought those points could come back to haunt us.
Heading into round 41 we clung to a slim 1 point margin over Sociedad. With German rivals Bayern visiting, I knew we needed to try and grab an early lead then defend. The initial plan worked as we took a shock 1-0 lead due to coming out attacking to the surprise of JB. Only to be out coached when Bayern played E to our C, giving them TA which was too much to overcome.
Round 42 had us heading to Italy to face Juventus, needing a point to secure safety. This time we felt AB would want to attack and try to over power us, so the counter attacks was the way. We almost pulled it off...so close.
Meanwhile Freddie and Sociedad never let up, drawing level on points and over taking us on goal differential. Congrats to Freddie on a well earned finish.
I hope the supporters enjoyed the season and are proud of our efforts. It wasn't always pretty but we did everything we could with what we had available. Facing higher quality sides nearly every match, our best strategy was being unpredictable. Judging by some of the post match posts we were successful in putting a scare into some of the big clubs even if we ended up losing the match. It was fun not having any pressure because we were always expected to lose. I myself was surprised at some of the results. At the end I hope Schalke earned some respect at the least. I do think toward the end we did get a little too conservative which hurt us."
Rumors are the gaffer may end up staying in the EFL with interest from other clubs. If not, he has expressed that he intends to be back at the helm of Schalke fighting for promotion.