The visiting supporters will be looking to recreate the intense atmosphere from the first clash at the St. Hannapi last week. It was an atmosphere that certainly created an impression on the Villa’ players. Former West Brom Captain, Villa centre back Curtis Davies has been waxing lyrical over the incredible home support enjoyed by Rapid. The young defender has spoken to local newspaper “The Birmingham Mail” about the atmosphere in the first leg. “It was a brilliant atmosphere over there. I’ve heard people say it was intimidating but that’s football. These are the games you want to play in. It was as good an atmosphere as I’ve played in. The Ultras behind the goal were quality”. High praise for the Block West indeed, especially coming from an opposition player with international experience. Peter Pacult and Markus Heikkinen addressed the Austrian media before the Rapid team took to the Villa park pitch for a training session, watched by a couple of hundred loyal Rapid supporters. Markus Heikkinen, formerly based in England with Luton Town, was first to take the stand. The Finnish midfield enforcer gave us his thoughts on the first leg, the teams philosophy for tomorrows game, Villa’s recent victory at Anfield and the debatable British weather. “It was a good result in the first leg. It gave us a good platform for the second match as we aim to qualify for the group stage. We could have scored more though, as this match will be a lot harder”. Markus then gave us insight into the teams mentality ahead of such an important match. “It would be dangerous for us to just sit back. Away goals are very important in European football. You can never be sure of how the game will flow. The Liverpool result (1 – 3 against Villa) makes no odds. It was the premier league, this is the Europa cup. That sentiment was echoed by trainer Peter Pacult. “We took some info from the game although no-one was present. I’m sure they’ll start with a different line up however”. When questioned over the possibility of switching to a 4-5-1 formation the Rapid gaffer kept his cards close to his chest “We have many possibilities, although I have my plan in my head. Not much can surprise us, although we have to keep our concentration and anticipate a quick start”. The infamous British weather was summed up perfectly by Heikinen “The weather in Vienna is perfect for me and my family”. Enough said Markus!During the day more and more Rapid fans were visible in the streets of Birmingham, painting the city Green – White. Something special is set to unfold at Villa park tomorrow, and the feeling that Rapid could create something special is almost tangible, its in the air all around the ground. We wait with baited breath. Glenn Walters & Christoph Beranek reporting from Birmingham
31.08.2015