40 years ago, VfB did previously win promotion back to the Bundesliga’s top-flight. Together with the protagonists from that occasion, we are taking a look back at the 1976/1977 season. Today: Markus Elmer

In the 1976/1977 season, VfB won promotion back to the Bundesliga. Together with the protagonists from back then, we are recalling the events of 40 years ago and presenting the players from the promotion winning side. Between Christmas and New Year, on www.vfb.de, we will be publishing the stories which have been appearing in the match-day programme throughout the current campaign.

On match-day 32, in an important away clash with 1860 München at the Olympiastadion, Markus Elmer did miss from the spot in the 42^nd minute, but it by no means knocked him out of his stride. "I was frustrated for a day or two, but then I put that behind me," recalled Markus Elmer. But there was a happy end. VfB eventually caught and overtook TSV 1860 München, who also later won promotion to the top-flight through the play-offs, and took the title with a single point advantage. It was a success which Elmer had an important role to play in, having performed strongly throughout. In 36 games that season, Markus Elmer scored eleven goals, earning VfB some important points along the way – such as in the first meeting that season with TSV 1860 München. Elmer was on target from the penalty spot in the 66^th minute to make it 3-2 – which proved the final score on the day.