by Greg Seltzer for Soccer365

Hansa Rostock defender Heath Pearce says that while their late scramble from two down to tie weekend visitors Mainz showed character, the result still left the team with a bitter aftertaste.

The U.S. international came on at left back for the final 25 minutes, which saw the Ostseestädters netted twice in the waning moments to grab a share.

"Coming off an away loss, we knew we needed to play for three points at home, which we didn't get," Pearce told Soccer365. "From that standpoint, I think we let ourselves down a bit."

"On the other hand, we clawed back from two goals down to get a point, so on that note we should be proud of our efforts in the final minutes and try to extend that type of play over 90 minutes."

Each of Hansa's four league games this season has been a tight affair, which Pearce says gives substitutes both a chance to contribute in a meaningful way and a chance to shine.

"I think coming on during crunch time is very different then when you're way behind or way ahead," he explained.

"As a sub, you it's nice to be thrown into important parts of games and prove your worth, and try to create a spark in the team."

Pearce and Hansa now hit the road to tackle Grover Gibson's third place Ahlen on Friday night.

Soccer365 reporter Greg Seltzer blogs daily over at No Short Corners.

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