FC Schalke vs Freiburg player ratings: One point salvaged?

FC Schalke hosted SC Freiburg, both hoping to finish the first half on a high note. Here are the player ratings from the match.

FC Schalke needed three points to close out the first half of the season in a positive light and to keep pace with the top four. David Wagner didn’t leave anything up to chance, he played his best players in their best positions. Having lost just two of their past 14, the confidence was definitely there for Die Knappen.

Schalke had a lot of movement early on, but not a lot of precision, demonstrated primarily by some sloppiness by Amine Harit. It only took about 25 minutes for that to change. After Ozan Kabak won the ball back (because what else would he do?) and fed Suat Serdar, the German midfielder drove tremendously up the pitch and found Benito Raman.

The in-from striker held the ball, waited for support, and didn’t miss his chance, feeding Serdar, who drilled home the opening goal. Earlier than usual too, which is nice.

A nervy moment just before half that required tremendous last-ditch defending and a double save from Markus Schubert saw us to half time with the 1-0 lead in tact.

Early in the second half, Freiburg were awarded a penalty that I just do not understand, and will never understand. It sprung the away side some undeserved confidence, but it also fired up the hosts, who were far more deserving in their goal than the guests.

To compile on that, Freiburg were granted a second penalty just inside the box and they took it. A frustrating development leaving the Royal Blues down 2-1.

Thankfully, Ahmed Kutucu ain’t no chump, and drove home a tremendous first-time effort, nearly notching a go-ahead as well. Unfortunately it was not to be. Here are the player ratings: