Having failed to beat Wolfsburg, Hertha and Freiburg, BVB got back to winning ways in Köln last time out. Next up on the agenda is a clash with HSV at Signal Iduna Park on Saturday (15:30 CET). "We would like to get a victory," Peter Stöger said.

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Having previously been held to draws by both Wolfsburg and Freiburg, the fans will be hoping that the third home game of 2018 will finally bring about a victory for the Black & Yellows. Of his side's form since the winter break, including the two away games (draw in Berlin, win in Köln), the coach said: "The four matches were okay in spells but not optimal." In Köln he saw a "clearly improved" team that showed "more purpose going forward". Nonetheless, the fact that "space was left open at the back" has not escaped his attention.

BVB cannot and must not give HSV that kind of space, even if the Northerners are not exactly known for their counter-attacking play (only two goals from quick switch-play). Stöger is expecting a fiercely competitive opponent whose modus operandi going forward is to play long balls. But that has "little influence on what we want to do", Stöger said. He is focused on the strengths his squad, which is still strong despite the losses of Yarmolenko and Sancho to injury, possesses going forward. "We will place the main focus on the lads who are performing really well," explained the coach, who is "feeling in a positive mood. I have the impression that things are getting better and better. I believe we're on the right track." (br)