Trapp to the rescue
Eintracht made the perfect start to UEFA Europa League Group H, overcoming an early goal and a sending-off to win at the Stade Vélodrome. Among the many factors in the club's successful European return was goalkeeper Kevin Trapp, who kept the Eagles in the game with a number of good saves.
Ten brave Eagles
A further factor was Eintracht's team spirit following Jetro Willems' 59th-minute dismissal; summer signing Lucas Torró personified the effort put in by all concerned. The Spaniard scored the equaliser seven minutes prior to the sending-off, while his tireless energy in the middle of the park helped to make up for the numerical disadvantage.
Adi Hütter's men defended stoutly against one of the competition favourites, giving away few chances. When the pressure did increase late on, many Eintracht fans were no doubt fearing the worst given what had happened in recent games against Werder Bremen and Borussia Dortmund.
On this occasion, however, Frankfurt struck late with a goal worthy of winning any game. Simon Falette and Filip Kostic combined, the latter crossing to Luka Jovic, who coolly slotted home the winner. The victory was deserved reward for the Eagles' effort, commitment and spirit.
