Mario Gomez struck to give FC Bayern another win on the road against Hoffenheim on Sunday afternoon – but boss Jupp Heynckes believes his side were far from at their best.
Heynckes was able to call upon the talismanic striker and the likes of Xherdan Shaqiri and Tom Starke with an eye on their second-leg against Arsenal on the horizon.
Gomez netted the only goal of the game against a gutsy Hoffenheim in the first-half, as he looked to stake a claim for a starting berth with Mario Mandzukic on the bench.
However, the FC Bayern head coach appreciates his side had to work for their victory, if not playing the most exciting football.
He said post-match: “The game was very difficult, because the opponent is in trouble. It was a laborous victory, not brilliant, not glamorous, but in return you get three points. We have to work properly for the ninety minutes.
“We were a bit superficial, not directly in the game, and not different enough. It took a long time for us. “
The Bavarians kept another clean-sheet and broke the record of the highest in a single season. From their 20 league victories, 17 of them have included keeping a blank.
Marco Kurz added: “The team has worked hard, especially in the first half. They were very involved and with a chance. Plus, we were very brave and never gave up the fight. The Bavarians also cause errors, but you… have to achieve a goal, of course.
“We are a bit further away from the relegation because we want to get three points next week.”
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Speaking of Bayern, they set another Bundesliga record today with their win at Hoffenheim. Now have most away wins in a season with 11.
— Cristian Nyari (@Cnyari) March 3, 2013
For the first time this season, Stephan #Schröck has looked fantastic. The number 40 for #Hoffenheim has bossed MF and Schweinsteiger today.
— Jonathan Harding (@JonBloggs66) March 3, 2013
This is probably the worst start to a game I have seen from #Bayern all season. Lucky not to be behind #HOFFCB
— Thomas Holland (@FRfussballTomH) March 3, 2013
