VfB Lübeck concluded the year with a strong performance, securing a decisive 2-0 victory against FC St. Pauli II during their matchup at the Lohmühle Stadium on December 14, 2024. This win marked Lübeck's first home game since October, following five weeks without competitive play.
The match began cautiously, with both teams engaging in what can only be described as a tactical tussle. Early on, players exhibited physicality, leading to treatment for Lübeck’s Manuel Farrona Pulido after just seven minutes. The first significant attempt on goal came from St. Pauli's John Posselt, who failed to convert his chance.
Many interruptions characterized the first half, with tensions flaring to the point of yellow cards being issued to players including Lübeck's Luca Menke. While both teams struggled to capitalize on their possession, it was clear the contest was going to be hard-fought. St. Pauli's Julian Ulbricht found himself on the end of chances, sending his shot wide from 29 yards out.
Despite the lack of scoring opportunities, both teams looked to build momentum as they headed toward halftime. Ulbricht got another opportunity but was thwarted by Lübeck's goalkeeper Gavin Didzilatis, signaling the close of the first half at 0-0.
When play resumed, Lübeck began to transition from defense to attack more effectively. Pulido’s early efforts indicated growing optimism, yet it wasn’t until the 66th minute when the deadlock was broken. Following intelligent buildup play, Mika Lehnfeld entered the match as a substitute and made his mark, scoring the first goal by sliding the ball home from Farrona Pulido’s cross.
With Lübeck buoyed by the goal, St. Pauli struggled to regain their footing. Just moments later, the hosts cemented their lead with another well-executed play. Former St. Pauli player Menke rose to head home from Marvin Thiel’s free-kick, sealing the 2-0 win with just minutes to spare.
After the match, FC St. Pauli's U23 head coach, Benny Hoose, remarked, "Ich glaube, wir haben heute einen verdienten Sieg vom VFB Lübeck gesehen. […] uns geht es darum, uns in dem Bereich zu entwickeln und stressresistent zu werden." His comments reflected on the need for improvement, particularly highlighting his team's struggle to convert possession to scoring opportunities.
Meanwhile, VfB coach Guerino Capretti expressed satisfaction with his team's performance, stating, "Ich freue mich, mal wieder eine PK zu haben. […] das war heute in der ersten Hälfte kein Leckerbissen für die Zuschauer, aber […] wir haben uns auf den Fußball konzentriert und auf das Spiel gefreut." His insights acknowledged the difficulties of the match but praised the players’ commitment to execution.
The victory served not only as a needed boost following the weeks of absence due to various interruptions, including potential financial distress for the club, but it also instilled confidence as they look to the challenges of the upcoming matches. With their performance on display, the Lübeck squad will carry their momentum forward confidently as they hope for continued success when the season resumes.
