15.09.2023 13:18
(Akt. 16.09.2023 09:37)
Altach faces a challenge in Linz ©APA/GEPA/Canva
Competed six times against promoted teams and only got one point: SCR Altach is fighting against a recent negative record against newcomers to the Bundesliga in the 7th round duel with Blau-Weiß Linz on Saturday (5 p.m.).
The Vorarlbergers are in seventh place in the Hofmann Personal Stadium with seven points, while the hosts are three points behind in tenth place after their debut win at WSG Tirol (4:2) before the international break.
Altach coach expects game at eye level
On paper, the Altach team, who have only lost one of the last seven away games, are favorites; coach Joachim Standfest didn’t want to know anything about it. “You can look at it however you want. I expect a game at eye level against an opponent who is in our area,” said the 43-year-old. Both teams would belong to the second part of the two-tier society in the league. “We want to take something with us and have to use everything we can in order to survive,” the Styrian was certain.
The Linzers paid “some lessons” in the first rounds. They have learned “a lot” now. “The team has gained stability defensively, has a really good transition game and has an exceptional player up front in Ronivaldo who is always good for a goal,” warned Standfest about the opponents. The performance of his team was also impressive recently. The 1:2 against Sturm Graz was unfortunate; previously there had been seven points in three games.
“Looking pretty good at the moment…”
“The new players have developed as we expected, things are looking pretty good at the moment. We also have a great spirit in the team,” emphasized the Styrian. Even six goals disallowed after video study couldn’t change that. “That’s noticeable, but I strongly suspect that it’s not connected.” As a coach, he can live with bad decisions, but he hopes that the referees will be more sensitive when players show emotions. The fit-again Constantin Reiner will probably act as right-back for the suspended Felix Strauss.
Linz positive with outsider role
The Linzers only have to give up Mehmet Ibrahimi (fractured metatarsal bone), Erwin Softic and Lukas Tursch. Preparation for the Altach game started on Monday after four days off. According to coach Gerald Scheiblehner, the success against the Tyroleans made the situation easier for everyone. “But we know that we have to get better to stay in the league. Winning two games in a row is always a challenge,” said the 46-year-old.
You have to succeed as an outsider. “That will always be us, but we accept the role,” said Scheiblehner. With Altach we welcome the “surprise team” of the league. “Altach is a strong opponent, but we have the confidence to win.” It would be the first home win in the upper house. Afterwards (7.30 p.m.) the SPG women’s teams from BW Linz/Union Kleinmünchen and Altach/FFC Vorderland will compete. For the first time there will be a Bundesliga double. “This is a clear commitment to women’s football in Austria,” emphasized BW managing director Christoph Peschek. The organizers are hoping for a sold out house.
2023-09-16 07:39:35
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