Bundesliga Match Halted After Goalkeeper Struck by Object Thrown from Stands
The Bundesliga match between Union Berlin and VfL Bochum was temporarily suspended after Bochum's goalkeeper, Patrick Drewes, was hit on the head by a lighter thrown from the stands.
In a Bundesliga match at the Stadion An der Alten Försterei, Union Berlin and VfL Bochum played to a 1-1 draw. The game was marred by an incident in stoppage time when Bochum's goalkeeper, Patrick Drewes, was struck on the head by a lighter thrown from the stands. Drewes collapsed to the ground, prompting immediate medical attention and a suspension of play.
The referee halted the match, and both teams were sent to the locker rooms during the interruption. After approximately 28 minutes, play resumed with Bochum's forward, Philipp Hofmann, taking over as goalkeeper, as Drewes was taken to the hospital for further evaluation. The match concluded without further incident.
Bochum's players expressed their frustration over the incident, emphasizing that such behavior is unacceptable and should have consequences. Union Berlin's management condemned the act and assured that they would work with authorities to identify the perpetrator.
This event has sparked discussions about fan behavior and stadium security in German football, highlighting the need for stricter measures to prevent such incidents in the future.