Setback for Wiener Austria against BW Linz

In the Austria camp, the post-match discussion was about "small details." Unlike the previous week against Rapid, chances to take the lead were missed this time. Reinhold Ranftl emphasized that one could not expect to simply defeat Blau-Weiß. Despite everything, the guests won through a penalty by Shon Weissman (79th minute) and the strong performance of Viktor Baier in goal. Helm considered the defeat disappointing.

Helm after defeat for Wiener Austria: "Deserved more"

"It wasn't a top performance from us, but one where we deserved to take more," said the Austria coach. He spoke of a clear advantage in chances for his team. When Austria tried to force an equalizer emphatically in the final stages, Blau-Weiß wavered considerably but did not fall. The organized fans bid farewell to the Austrians amicably and reminded once again of the derby victory. The mood had been different a month ago when Helm's position was reportedly shaky.

The victories against Sturm Graz and recently Rapid brought back memories of last season when Austria minimalistically rushed from victory to victory. The line between victory and defeat remains narrow. "We are a team that can beat anyone, but will also have such games repeatedly," explained Helm. He did not accept that his team, especially in midfield without the suspended Abubakr Barry, offered too little stability. Due to suspensions and injuries, the purple bench was almost continuously filled with young players.

That the 17-year-old Philipp Maybach was late in the duel against Paul Mensah before the penalty whistle, Ranftl saw as a maturation process: "We don't have the squad like other Bundesliga teams. Many have demanded that young players get a chance. Now they have to learn, week by week." In two weeks away against WSG Tirol, Lee Kang-hee and Tin Plavotic could be back. Both are expected to return to training soon after injuries.

BW Linz: Clean Sheet at the Back, Strikers Up Front

Blau-Weiß left Vienna on a high. The Linz team collected ten points in the past five rounds. The times at the bottom of the table can be looked back on without worries. "Will, passion, mentality, and team spirit" were seen by coach Mitja Mörec as factors for the recent success. The recipe for his team is clear. Blau-Weiß keeps it tight at the back, while top scorer Ronivaldo, his predecessor Shon Weissman, and veteran Thomas Goiginger are expected to deliver up front.

"To go into the international break with a win at Austria, we are very satisfied," said Goiginger. "Our performances have steadily improved." In Vienna, this resulted in the first away win after nine unsuccessful attempts. Mörec also thanked the club officials who stood by him after the failed start to the season. "After the four defeats (at the beginning), confidence wavered. But the cup match and then the 2-2 against Salzburg were the game changers. Then it suddenly starts to work."

(APA/Red)

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