Two defeats and one draw - the first three matches of the Regionalliga season have proven a sobering experience for the Borussia Dortmund U23s. But what the results don't show are the promising performances which Mike Tullberg's young side have delivered out on the pitch. This was particularly true of the most recent match, against Wuppertaler SV, in which the Black & Yellows essentially laid siege to the opposition's goal for the entirety of the 90 minutes only for the match to somehow end 1-0 in favour of Wuppertal. 

What arguably stung more than the pain of defeat was the injury suffered by Lars Bünning. The left-back, who signed for BVB in the summer after moving from Werder Bremen, will most likely be replaced in the starting line-up by Dominik Wanner. Tullberg may be forced to make additional adjustments to his defensive set-up given the possible absence of Julian Schwermann. The 20-year-old suffered an injury during the midweek friendly match played against Dutch second-division side NEC Nijmegen. New arrival Steve Tunga may have an important role to play in head coach Tullberg's plans. The 22-year-old defensive midfielder has made a positive impression in friendly appearances and could well be used to plug the gap at the right side of defense. 

Newly-promoted TuS Haltern can certainly be pleased with the start they've made to the season. Despite their defeat on Tuesday night against Alemannia Aachen, coach Magnus Niemöller's have been able to pick up wins against both Fortuna Düsseldorf II and Lotte. TuS' total of six points means they are currently placed sixth in the Regionalliga West table. 

Kick-off in the Stauseekampfbahn in Haltern is scheduled for 18:45 CET on Friday evening. The match will be officiated by referee Dominik Jolk.