Bundesliga » News » Sturm want to keep Salzburg going
While Sturm Graz wants to keep up with a series champion Salzburg after the successful European Cup trip to Rome in the Bundesliga, the WSG Tirol feels comfortable in the outsider role. “It will be the ultimate challenge for us, we have to be honest,” said WSG trainer Thomas Silberberger before the duel in the 11th round on Sunday (2.30 p.m.) at the runners-up in Graz. “Sturm is currently even more intense in the game against the ball than Red Bull.”
>> Live ticker: Sturm Graz vs. WSG Tirol
The Styrians came back from Italy with a 0-0 draw at Lazio and a point in their luggage. Now it’s up to coach Christian Ilzer’s squad not to lose contact with Salzburg during the “English weeks”. Currently the deficit of the first pursuer is only two points. “We want to meet expectations at all levels, create a great starting position for the championship group in the league, but also succeed in the Europa League,” said Ilzer.
Wattens in up and down mode
The prestigious derby against GAK is also waiting for the ÖFB Cup on October 19th. “We want to be successful on three dance floors,” emphasized Ilzer. In any case, the Grazers are the clear favorites against the Watteners, as the statistics show. In the league, Sturm goalie Jörg Siebenhandl has not conceded a goal for 435 minutes, and the Tyroleans have never won against Graz in eight Bundesliga games.
Why is Wattens struggling against a storm? “The conditions are difficult, probably 10,000 spectators or more. In addition, there is a dominant opponent who has quality. Then it can happen that you leave the field as a loser in Graz,” explained Silberberger. But the anticipation is definitely there, especially since the Watteners are like a grab bag. Before the international break, there was a clear 4:1 at LASK, followed by a 0:5 against Rapid.
“I’m also curious to see what will happen on Sunday,” said Silberberger: “Maybe we’ll play Sturm against the wall for 45 minutes and then Graz will take the lead from a throw-in – just like Rapid.” However, there could also be a surprise. “We have to take the fewest chances we get and consistently defend at the back.”
papa