Schaaf switch boosts Bremen

An inspired tactical change from Thomas Schaaf helped Werder Bremen go top of the table with a 3-1 win at home to Alemannia Aachen.

The Bundesliga strugglers threatened to cause an upset after taking an early lead, but a double substitution at half-time sparked a Bremen comeback.

Aachen, who are just three points outside the relegation zone, were in front after just two minutes when Sergio Pinto silenced the home crowd.

With Bremen toiling in search of an equaliser, Schaaf introduced both Daniel Jensen and Markus Rosenberg.

The change proved to be decisive as Jensen equalised within five minutes of coming on and Rosenberg scored the winner on 55 minutes.

The points were made safe in the final minute when Diego scored to snuff out any Aachen fightback.

Though Bremen have gone top of the standings, Schalke will return to the summit with victory at home to Energie Cottbus on Saturday.