Robert Andrich reacts in confusion: “He has to get sent off!”
| Patrik Schick being fouled by Malick Thiaw. | Photo: Lars Baron / Getty Images. |
Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Robert Andrich spoke openly after his team’s thrilling 2–2 Champions League draw with Newcastle United, highlighting both the positives and challenges of the match:
“Over large stretches, it was a good game from our side. The second half started okay, but then the setback with the penalty came. From the 65th minute onwards, you could see we were running out of steam, but in the end, the draw was deserved,” Andrich said.
He praised his team’s preparation and resilience against Newcastle’s physical style:
“We knew Newcastle would be very aggressive in duels. At times, we managed them well, and Mark Flekken was almost unpressable. Of course, he made one mistake, but he also initiated many attacks for us. Overall, we were well-prepared for Newcastle, and the draw feels fair,” Andrich added.
Andrich also expressed frustration over a controversial moment early in the game.
“The free kick is okay, but actually Thiaw should have seen a red card there - both for the foul itself and because he was the last man against Patrik [Schick] with a full-speed shot on goal. I'm sorry, but he has to get sent off there,” he explained.
Leverkusen’s performance, marked by late heroics from Alejandro Grimaldo, earned them a point, and Andrich’s reflections underline both the team’s tactical discipline and the fine margins that defined the contest.
