VfB Stuttgart 3 - 1 Eintracht Frankfurt - Stuttgart claim rare win

Posted Sunday, March 22, 2015 by PA

Stuttgart came from behind to pick up their first win of 2015, beating Eintracht Frankfurt 3-1 at the Mercedes-Benz-Arena.

Haris Seferovic gave Frankfurt the lead just after half-time against a side who, despite victory, continue to prop up the rest of the Bundesliga.

However, two goals in three minutes from Daniel Ginczek turned things round for Stuttgart and a third from Alexandru Maxim 10 minutes from time gave the long-suffering home fans some rare joy.

The win still leaves Huub Stevens' men at the foot of the table, but just two points now from safety.

It also means the Dutchman is almost certain to keep his job at least for the next two weeks, during the international break.

Stuttgart's usual home nerves were clear to see as Frankfurt looked to make an early impression, going close with the league's top-scorer Alexander Meier heading just inches wide.

Something had to change at the start of the second half and it appeared to be looking better for the hosts until they fell behind.

Bastian Oczipka delivered a cross from the left and a fortunate deflection saw the ball land at the feet of Seferovic, who converted from close range.

Marc Stendera almost added a second with Sven Ulreich making a save among the increasing groans of concern from the home fans.

However, those same supporters were soon celebrating an equaliser.

Frankfurt goalkeeper Kevin Trapp got caught out of his goal and Martin Harnik lifted the ball past him to Ginczek, who had the easiest of finishes.

Just three minutes later, Ginczek made it two, this time needing to show more composure and accuracy, but delivering the same result with a shot past Trapp.

Frankfurt tried to get back on terms with Stuttgart resorting to playing counter-attacking football, and it worked well too with Maxim adding a third in the 80th minute.

Filip Kostic raced past Timothy Chandler and his cross was met by the Romanian midfielder, who beat Oczipka to the ball to ensure three precious points for Stuttgart.