Kowalczyk slams Lech Poznan after Gornik defeat

Wojciech Kowalczyk labelled Lech Poznan's performance in a 2-1 loss to Gornik Zabrze a disgrace, pointing to disastrous set-piece defending. Coach Niels Frederiksen admitted his team's display was disappointing.

Wojciech Kowalczyk tore into Lech Poznan following their Saturday defeat to Gornik Zabrze. The former player and pundit harshly criticised the defence of Kolejorz for the mistakes that cost them points in Zabrze.

Lech lost 2-1 after two Erik Prekop goals from corners in the 76th and 80th minutes, despite taking the lead through Allahyar Sayyadmanesh in the 36th minute. It was the first defeat of the season in the Ekstraklasa for the Poznan side.

Disgrace at set-pieces

Wojciech Kowalczyk showed no mercy in a programme on WeszloTV. „A serious club cannot concede two corner kicks like that on Gornik Zabrze's pitch in four minutes and allow a guest who wasn't able to shoot on target to score two goals,” Kowalczyk said. He labelled Lech's performance a disgrace. In his view, the team's fundamental weakness is set-pieces. „Lech is in trouble with set pieces,” the commentator added, stating that Poznan's players set up too late in such situations, which Gornik ruthlessly exploited.

Frederiksen admits fault

Lech Poznan coach Niels Frederiksen agreed with the severe assessment. „I think our performance was disappointing.” the Dane admitted after the match. Frederiksen pointed out that his team lost organisation in the second half and dropped too deep, which opened the path to victory for the hosts. This defeat also meant revenge for Gornik after their 3-1 loss in the Polish Super Cup in July.

Table context

The loss in Zabrze cost Lech Poznan the lead in the table. Kolejorz dropped to second place with 16 points after seven matchdays, now two points behind the new leaders, Gornik Zabrze. The goal difference for the Poznan team is 12 scored and 6 conceded. Before the defeat, Lech's form was good, as evidenced by wins against Rakow Czestochowa, Jagiellonia and Widzew Lodz. Details of all results and team statistics can be checked on our stats page.

Lech's next test will be an away match against Wisla Plock scheduled for December 17th. Wisla currently occupies 16th place in the league. Before this match, Frederiksen's team will want to fix the mistakes so harshly condemned by Wojciech Kowalczyk. The senior squad list and injuries are available in the squad section.