Representatives of Anorthosis Famagusta were treated to a very impressive reception on Saturday afternoon. Last week in Cyprus Rapid failed to perform, losing 3-0 in the first leg of the Champions League qualifier. Nevertheless, our loyal fans almost filled the Hanappi Stadion for the side’s league match against Kapfenberg to get fully behind their side. “The Cypriot onlookers have never witnessed an atmosphere quite like that at the Kapfenberg match,” stated Manager Peter Pacult ahead of the second leg, for which around 14,000 tickets have already been sold. “It shouldn’t be taken for granted when the stadium is full just three days after a game such as the first match in Cyprus.” And Pacult knows that not only the team and the coaching staff, but also the fans contributed their share to the win. Absentees “Jimmy“ Hoffer and Branko Boskovic are backing in training, however both will need to pass a late fitness test to be in with a chance of facing Famagusta.“The squad is in good spirits,” explained defender Jürgen Patocka. “We all firmly believe that we can make it to the next round.” He was also quick to assure the media that a Rapid performance on par with the first match was not on the cards. Rapid will look to dictate the game, maintain pressure throughout. “With passion and the fans behind us we’re set for a good game,” stated Patocka calmly. There’s no hint of nerves. “But even before the second leg against Dresden the camp was very calm indeed,” stated Pacult, remembering the now legendary upset by Rapid in the 1985 Cup Winners’ Cup. Having lost the first tie 3-0 away from home, Rapid turned the fixture on its head in the home leg winning 5-0 to progress to the semi final. Pacult bagged himself a brace: “If you have experienced such a match like I have, you can contribute the odd motivational tip here or there. Whether we will really manage it is, of course, yet to be known.” But one thing is guaranteed by the man in charge – the players will be completely dedicated to the cause, both physically and mentally. “They will be there for each other, right until the final whistle. The boys have got a point to prove following the first match.” (gub/translated by Paul Read)
31.08.2015