WSV opened up the home season in the Zoo with a hard fought victory over Essen. Despite pressing pretty hard, WSV was never able to control the match, as the visitors put up fierce resistance. It took a somewhat questionable penalty to get the win, which might turn out to be a Pyhrric victory.

Early on, defender Andre Narewsky had to leave the game, complaining of stomach cramps. Whether this is more serious remains to be seen. The potentially devastating item was the injury to last year's leading scorer, Alex Kohout, who was hauled off to the hospital with a suspected ligament damage. Up until that point, he had been fairly active in the attack, blowing a wide open shot in the opening minutes. Late in the game, Sven Steup also had to leave, with some type of shoulder problem. All 3 are listed as questionable for the upcoming derby in Solingen.

In the 2nd half, WSV continued the pressure, but was unable to break the tight Essen defense. Finally on the hour Ebersbach was hauled down in the box by SWE keeper Emmrich, and Sascha Walbröhl slotted home what would be the game winner. Although the guests opened up, they weren't really able to threaten WSV. Instead, they resorted to rougher play, and their only "reward" was Kempkens getting his ass tossed for repeated fouls.

After the match, WSV coach Georg Kreß praised the support of the fans, although everybody was undoubtedly disappointed at the small crowd. Considering that hated Fortuna Düsseldorf drew about 4,600 for their opener against Junior Zebras, it's understandable.