FC Augsburg maintained their unbeaten start to the season but had to settle for a 2-2 draw against Bayer Leverkusen at the WWK Arena on Saturday. The result keeps Augsburg in third place in the Bundesliga with seven points from three matches.
Gregoritsch turns the tide
The visitors took the lead in the 18th minute through Christian Kofane. Augsburg's response after the break was immediate. Michael Gregoritsch equalised in the 50th minute, assisted by Hennes Behrens. Just five minutes later, the Austrian striker scored again, this time from a Fabian Rieder delivery, to complete the turnaround. "Augsburg were given a reprieve after a VAR review," said head coach Manuel Baum, referring to a Leverkusen goal that was later ruled out for offside.
Schick's late reply
The lead did not last until the final whistle. In the 89th minute, Patrik Schick scored a clever backheel to earn a deserved equaliser for Leverkusen. The late goal denied Augsburg a third consecutive victory but solidified their impressive early-season form. With three goals in three appearances, Gregoritsch is now the team's top scorer this season. The full standings show Augsburg in third, just two points off the top.
Leverkusen coach Carles Martinez said his side had taken a deserved lead against the league leaders in the first half. Augsburg now turn their attention to an away fixture against Werder Bremen next Saturday, with the injuries list in mind. Bremen currently sit tenth in the table. Augsburg's current squad will look to extend a recent run of three wins, one draw, and one loss from their last five competitive outings. Augsburg have now collected seven points from their three matches this season. The next fixture is away at Werder Bremen's Weserstadion on Saturday, September 21st, with a 3:30 PM kick-off.
Background and full detail: sports.yahoo.com
