Sebastian Hoeneß: “It was an emotional week”

Although the momentum shifted in Stuttgart with a DFB-Pokal final place, the Swabians were on a six-match winless streak in the Bundesliga before the trip to Bochum. Ermedin Demirović’s hat-trick ended this run as Stuttgart produced one of their best performances of the season.

“A lot went our way today,” admitted Sebastian Hoeneß after the game. “We were able to handle the initial pressure straight away with two goals. As the game progressed, our team seemed very agile and quick to react. I didn't see a clear-cut chance for Bochum.

“I have to give my team a huge compliment. It was an emotional week. In retrospect, the victory in the DFB Cup semi-final was a big help as it resolved a few things. It was a wonderful victory for us as a group after difficult weeks.”

For his part, Bochum’s experienced coach Dieter Hecking took full responsibility after the game. “From the first minute, we weren't present today. It was a collective underperformance. I take full responsibility for the entire game. We gave away endless gifts, especially when it came to the goals we conceded.

“You get that kind of game in a relegation battle. I've been around long enough for that. We really got a beating today. We shouldn't complain about losing 4-0.”