Oktoberfest reward for Bayern

Bayern Munich boss Jupp Heynckes took his player on a well-deserved rest after their fine start to the season, toasting the town at Oktoberfest.

After a shock opening-day defeat to Borussia Moenchengladbach, league-leaders Bayern have won six and drawn one of their seven Bundesliga fixtures as well as securing crucial victories over Villarreal and Manchester City in the Champions League.

Wearing traditional Bavarian clothing, the likes of Bastian Schweinsteiger and Manuel Neuer embraced their surroundings with a beer.

“The young lads play hide and seek. It seems to be very calm now, but in one or two hours it will be a bit different,” Schweinsteiger said.

Young shot-stopper Neuer lived up to that billing and was not quite as mindful when it came to his drink selection.

“Sure, when we have an event together and have a nice afternoon, a beer belongs to it,” Neuer said.”

“That’s it, I ordered a beer.”

If anyone deserved an ale, it was the 18-million euro off-season acquisition from Schalke, with Neuer in outstanding form since his move.

The German international has kept 11 consecutive clean sheets in all competitions, with the only goal he has conceded coming on the opening day.

“Of course (I am pleased), not only because I haven’t conceded, but because of the victories. Tomorrow we’re off, that’s why the Wiesn Ma (beer) tastes extraordinarily good,” he said.

Bayern’s annual visit to the celebrations were cancelled last year, with the club struggling in the Bundesliga on the back of a defeat to Dortmund.

However, Bayern’s early-season form in their bid to regain the title this season has been nothing short of outstanding, with the Bavarian side netting 21 goals in their eight games.

Bayern will be looking to continue their imposing form when they return to domestic action against Hertha Berlin on October 15.