1860 Lowdown

Munich, October 25 - It's safe to assume that 1860 Munich have enjoyed better weeks in their proud history.

1860's recent financial problems are well documented. The latest evidence of the club's mismanagement resulted in an immediate 2 point deduction being imposed by the DFL (German Football League). The club accepted the penalty for failing to adhere to stringent licence regulations - knowing only too well that they probably got off lightly. Director of Football Micky Stevic called the two point penalty 'slap in the face' for the club.

This new development amid the bizarre disappearance of former German U21 striker Savio Nsereko continues to baffle 1860 management. Amazingly, West Ham United paid 8.5 million Pounds for Nsereko's services only a couple of years ago. Rumours are rife about Nsereko's alleged financial problems and family issues in Uganda. However, the gifted but temperamental striker's days at 1860 are numbered.

All this overshadowed 1860's weekend fixture against cellar dwellers Arminia Bielefeld. 1860 went into the game as clear favourites on the back of an impressive run of form in the 2nd division.

Ending in a 0-0 bore draw, the two point penalty and the ongoing Nsereko saga cast a heavy air of autumnal depression over 1860 players and supporters alike at the weekend. Lions Captain Benny Lauth went closest for the home side but couldn't break the deadlock. This was a turgid affair which is best consigned immediately to the furthest reaches of the memory bank.

On a more positive note, it does stretch 1860's unbeaten run to six games but the home side would have expected the full three points against Christian Ziege's beleaguered Bielefeld.

1860 travel to struggling Cologne in the 2nd round of the DFB Pokal (German Cup) looking to progress and rake in much-needed fresh revenue.  Rumours will have spread like wildfire about 1860's current financial plight. Rudi Völler, Director of Football at Bayer Leverkusen, was amongst the interested talent-spotters at the Allianz Arena on Saturday, weighing up a move for young Lions star Moritz Leitner (17).

Quite simply, 1860 have to sell to survive.