Arminia Bielefeld upset the odds by securing their status in the Bundesliga for another season. One of the favourites for the drop after promotion last season, Bielefeld showed great character and strength to survive.
It threatened to be a long campaign for Bielefeld after a difficult first few months. After picking up 4 points from their first 2 games, they went on to lose the next 7, conceding 18 times in the process.
Coach Uwe Neuhaus went back to basics, with emphasis focused on being difficult to beat, whilst at first this worked as results improved but ultimately it impacted on their ability to score goals.
Somewhat surprisingly, Neuhaus was shown the exit door in March with the club sitting third from bottom. The appointment of Frank Kramer was initially met with trepidation by the fans but it turned out to be the right decision.
Bielefeld continued to be solid under Kramer and although they still struggled for goals, they found a way to win games.
Klos and Voglsammer found their old form again and the impressive Ritsu Doan shone in the attacking midfield role, Nielsen and Pieper also formed a strong partnership at centre-back.
Bielefeld lost just 2 of their last 11 games and survived with victory at Stuttgart on the final day.
Second season syndrome is always a worry for Bielefeld next term but under Kramer they should continue to be hard to beat. Some reinforcements will certainly be needed, especially in attacking areas.
