Grasshoppers doggedly overcame Servette to register their first win of the season after a disappointing season opening loss the previous week.
The under-strength Zürich side controlled large parts of the game but were guilty of missing some significant clear cut chances, however the narrow win elevates them into 4th spot in the NLA.
Having drawn twice last season, Grasshoppers and Servette games are tentative affairs with this game no exception. Grasshoppers had a goal ruled out for a minor infringement before wing back Joel Plambeck found himself in an advanced position and struck his first goal of the season courtesy of a small deflection from a Servette defender shortly before half time.
This tight contest continued and Servette drew the game level when Grasshoppers started slowly after the half time interval.
However, the game was settled when GC won their second penalty corner of the game which was expertly dispatched past the diving Servette goalkeeper by captain Roman Richner. The remaining 10 minutes saw opportunities for both sides but Grasshoppers held on for the win.
Man of the match; Lukas Gerbadt commented " It was a tough, attritional battle and fortunately we came out on top today."
Grasshoppers travel next week to Geneva to face Black Boys in an attempt to do the double over the Geneva teams this half season.
GC Players: Fabian Starsich, Fabio Dornbierer, Joel Plambeck, Robert Keitel, Roman Richner (c), Lukas Gerbadt, Fabio Landtwing, Benjamin Eddy, Ferran Comas, Fabian Steiner, Denes Heins, Jonas Bandick, Hinrich Mattiat, Moritz Bitar
Goals: Joel Plambeck, Roman Richner
Coach: Frank Zenker