week 14 - match preview

Schalke look to extend away run

"We aren't the favourites in Gladbach, but we will get our chances, there's no question of that", claimed Felix Magath ahead of Saturday's trip to Borussia Mönchengladbach (1830 CET). The Schalke manager warned his players not to underestimate the opposition, however, saying: "Gladbach have steadied the ship in recent games and picked up some good results – even better than ours if you think of Hamburg."

One thing the two sides have in common is the fact that their away form is better than their home form. "This is because both teams are at their strongest in defence and it's an advantage we should exploit", appealed Magath, "because away from home it isn't up to us to come out and play."

The Schalke manager directed special attention to the two Gladbach centre backs, who are known not just for their defensive qualities. "Roel Brouwers and Dante have already scored four goals between them, so we need to keep an eye on them when they go forward and keep things under control", he demanded, aware that his side's defensive strength provides the foundation for further success.

Magath made it clear that the Royal Blues go to Mönchengladbach looking to come away with something. "It's going to be a tough game, without question, but nevertheless I'm optimistic because our recent results have been good. We're definitely want at least a point." Buoyed by their recent good form the Royal Blues travel to the BORUSSIA PARK full of confidence. Magath said: "It's a good situation for us because we've played better than anyone expected and now find ourselves in a position we didn't think possible beforehand."