Sahin and Jablonski decline fight over late Bayern equalizer
| Nuri Sahin just prior to receiving an 81st minute yellow card on Saturday. | Stuart Franklin, Getty Images |
When it came time to comment on the controversial scene that enabled FC Bayern München to score a late equalizer in Saturday evening's Top-Spiel, BVB trainer Nuri Sahin first wished to emphasize that the 1-1 result "regrettably, felt fair". Stopping by the Sky Germany on-pitch sports desk, Sahin lamented the fact that some second half counterattacks were poorly finished by Jamie Gittens and Marcel Sabitzer might have ensured that the match ended differently.
"We could have exited the pitch winners," Sahain glumly noted, "I wish that Sabi [Marcel Sabitzer in the 62nd] had shot higher against Manuel Neuer. I don't think he could see him [teammate Serhou Guirassy in a wide open position behind him] due to [the screening] Dayot Upamecano."
The Sky team had something of a surprise for Sahin. Before asking him if match-official Sven Jablonski should have whistled play dead when an apparently injured Niklas Süle lay on the deck in the 85th, Jablonski himself joined Sahin at the desk. Sahin - looking a little uncomfortable - preferred to talk about the scene in the 81st when Jablonski booked him for dissent for arguing over a throw-in decision.
"We've already shared words," Sahin noted, "Anyone can make a mistake. I haven't been booked yet in the Bundesliga, but now know about leaving the technical area."
"Nuri was very respectful," Jablonski added, "When it came to Bayern's goal, I let play continue because there didn't appear to be a serious head injury. In the end, I had to let the goal stand."
