Werder Bremen 2 - 1 Bayer Leverkusen: Ousman Manneh makes history as Werder Bremen continue upward progress

Posted Sunday, October 16, 2016 by PA

Ousman Manneh became the first Gambian player to score in the Bundesliga as Werder Bremen continued their revival under Alexander Nouri with a 2-1 win over Bayer Leverkusen.

Zlatko Junuzovic gave Bremen a deserved lead, but Hakan Calhanoglu headed Leverkusen back on terms before half-time at the Weserstadion.

The points would end up staying in Bremen, though, as 19-year-old Manneh struck what would prove to be the winner just before the hour, and in the process etch his name into the record books.

The victory means Werder have now picked up seven points from a possible nine since losing their opening game under new boss Nouri.

Nouri was handed interim control in mid-September following the sacking of Viktor Skripnik before the former reserve-team boss, 37, was named permanent coach during the international break.

Serge Gnabry led a strong start from the hosts, whose lively opening was rewarded with the opening goal in the 13th minute.

Manneh's shot was excellently saved by Bernd Leno, but Junuzovic was on hand to turn in the rebound.

Bremen continued to control the game but were stunned when Leverkusen levelled against the run of play, the unmarked Calhanoglu heading in Kevin Kampl's cross.

It was then Leverkusen's turn to dominate, albeit without finding a second goal to reward them for their efforts.

The visitors continued to pose the greater threat in the second half, yet it was Bremen's turn to score against the run of play with the same combination for the first goal, this time in reverse, giving them the lead.

Junuzovic's shot was blocked by Wendell and Manneh struck the loose ball into the far corner.

Admir Mehmedi had a goal ruled out for offside as Leverkusen pushed for an equaliser, but they could not find one as they remained in ninth - now just three points above Bremen - with defeat.