After just six minutes, the Graz Oval was practically boiling, but Kitishvili’s supposed early goal in the follow-up did not count. David Affengruber started from an offside position before his shot.
Due to several simple mistakes in the build-up game, Borussia were only able to take the lead after 15 minutes. After a cross from Terzic, Karim Konate was suddenly completely free, but he placed his header well beyond the goal (21′). Shortly thereafter, Graz fans launched a massive pyrotechnic show to celebrate the 20th anniversary of a fan club. Clouds of smoke caused disruption for more than twelve minutes.
During the break, Ilzer brought on William Boving in place of Szymon Wlodarczyk, who was completely suspended in the air. The change was initiated by the most influential Hurricanes field player of the day. Kitishvili slammed the ball into the goal from about 30 meters under the crossbar after a corner (53′). Now in a completely open exchange of attacks, Sherpan made the first save from Simic, while Sarkaria on the other hand made it 2-1 (63′).
The contradictions in mood continued. Only after video evidence did referee Julian Weinberger award a dubious penalty to Salzberg. John Gorenc-Stankovic hit Koita in a shooting movement with his leg extended. After this Koita safely converted the penalty into a goal. Both teams were then infected with a highly emotional atmosphere. The formation of a pack ended with two yellow cards on both sides. The visitors, where Luka Sucic made a comeback, were close to victory in a turbulent end. But league leader was no longer actually binding.
