Adam Szalai: "I love moments like that"

Adam, let's talk goals. How important was your brace against Mainz?

Adam Szalai: "Really important, for me but also for the team because we got the three points we needed. The last few weeks haven't gone to plan because we haven't picked up as many points as we would've wanted, so I was really happy to help the team get that victory. The last win seems way too long ago. In the second half of last season I got a brace against Mainz and I managed to do so again this time. So it seems I just really love playing against them. As a striker when you score goals it helps you ease up in front of goal. So my self-confidence is there. The second definitely came easier than the first."

You took off your shirt and celebrated with one of the grounds-staff. I think it's safe to say you were pretty pumped up after your second went in. Was it the perfect afternoon for you?

Szalai: "Definitely. I love moments like that, to be able to celebrate with your team and the fans - there's nothing better. I'm already 30 years old, so who knows how many more moments like that I'm going to get (laughs). They're definitely emotional, particularly as a striker because it's exactly what you work towards."

The TSG fans started singing a song for you. After some pretty tough times this season that must have been something special.

Szalai: "During the game I actually didn't hear it. I was too focused on how I was playing but I hope I'll hear them sing it in the games we've still yet to play. I just want to thank the fans for their support."

Even your striker partner Andrej Kramaric got himself on the score-sheet a couple of times. What does a brace really mean for a striker?

Szalai: "We live for goals; all attackers do. To get them you need to trust yourself, be at ease in front of goal and of course get that bit of luck. You need to be decisive when you get the opportunities. When you're on form it comes so easily. You don't think, you just do but you need to work so hard to get to that point. Goals only lead to more goals, so I'm hoping me and Andrej can continue this streak."

How important was the team's first three points since the middle of December? Especially considering the games you have coming up.

Szalai: "It was hugely important. Both my goals and Andrej's ensured that we don't have to start the game on Saturday coming in as losers. We wanted to and had to win that game. Although since the break we have played quite well, always with a lot of energy and creating chances. We need to take a lot of confidence into the game against Schalke because they will be a tough nut to crack."

What have you boys been working on before your game against Schalke?

Szalai: "We want to build on the performance we showed against Mainz. We will have to up our game if we want to take the three points away from Gelsenkirchen. Schalke have been very consistent this season and are sitting pretty, near the top of the table. I think the game will be very interesting tactically. Schalke do a lot of things right and the coach has been saying that we will have to be so strong tactically in order to break them. Above all, we will have to be confident from the start and bold going forward. Then we will have a chance to beat them."

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