Helm expects a match “of a different nature” in Hartberg

In the second match of the ADMIRAL Bundesliga’s championship group, Austria Wien face TSV Hartberg away on Sunday at 2.30 pm. Manager Stephan Helm looks ahead to the upcoming match and explains what will be key.

In their opening match of the championship group, the Veilchen – who were down to ten men from the 55th minute – suffered a 2–5 defeat to league leaders SK Sturm Graz. “We played some very good football up until the red card. It took us a while to properly assess the situation. Given our first-half performance, we would have expected a better result. But we’ve also clearly discussed what we need to improve,” explains coach Stephan Helm.

“Keeping a cool head”

The teams remain closely bunched in the table. In fifth place, Austria are just one point behind second place. A win against Sturm would even have put them top of the table. “At this stage, it’s crucial to keep a cool head and not get too caught up in possible scenarios. The table can change drastically within a few weeks – which is why it’s now more important than ever to take it one game at a time. Our team has already proven its high level of commitment on several occasions, particularly in situations like this,” emphasises the coach.

Following the clash with league leaders Sturm Graz, the next challenge awaits in the form of Hartberg – albeit under different circumstances: “The match will have a completely different character and could turn into a game of patience. The key is for us to take control of the game and steer it in a positive direction. We haven’t managed to do that in our last two encounters with Hartberg. It will be important to create enough chances over 90 minutes to win the game whilst remaining solid at the back,” says Stephan Helm.

Squad news

Abu Barry (ninth yellow card) and Tin Plavotić (yellow/red card) are suspended, whilst Sanel Šaljić (thigh) remains a doubt. “We have options – a few lads have done very well in recent weeks, have made their mark and want to help the team,” says manager Stephan Helm. Striker Kelvin Boateng remains out of contention, though he has at least been able to take part in parts of team training in the meantime following his broken metacarpal.