Following the departure of Peter Pacult and his backroom staff, President Rudolf Edlinger spoke about the changes sweeping through Hütteldorf and his decision to place Zoran Barisic in charge until the end of the season.Early on Monday the club released the following statement:SK Rapid would like to officially state that due to a huge breakdown in the trust between the Rapid boardroom and coach Peter Pacult, the trainer has departed with immediate effect. This news of course led to speculation amongst both the media and our fans. President Rudolf Edlinger therefore took to the stand to answer questions from various media representatives. He explained that the trust between both himself and Peter Pacult had been severely compromised to such an extent that he no longer felt a working relationship was possible. One reason was of course the persistent rumours about Pacult himself, allegations he denied, but none the less following discussions with the former trainer the club felt forced to act. "Due to the circumstances surrounding our current on field performance, and the attention and focus required, we decided that it was not possible for Pacult to continue", said Edlinger, "the conclusions were drawn and Peter Pacult, former assistant Leopold Rotter, goalkeeping coach Manfred Kohlbacher along with fitness coach Christian Canestrini have all left Hütteldorf."The club President thanked the outgoing Trainer for his efforts and his "outstanding achievements" during his time at the Hanappi, but pointed out due that to the lack of trust the situation wasn't workable. He also insisted the situation will be managed: "the situation is manageable and we will come to a staffing solution", stated a positive Edlinger.  Back to the first team affairsShortly afterwards, Edlinger introduced an old friend to the podium in the shape of Zoran "Zoki" Barisic, who, with immediate effect, will take over the running of first team affairs on an interim basis until the summer. "I have been informed this morning. It is a great honour and I'll look to pay back the boards trust in me between now and the end of the season."Barisic is well known in Hütteldorf after working for the previous two years in the Rapid youth set up. He was also Peter Pacult's assistant for three seasons before that. Most of our players know "Zoki" well. "It was an emotional reunion, I've already sat down with the players", said Barisic. "The important thing now, is that every team member performs to his maximum capabilities." His assistant coach is Robert Haas, previously Andreas Reisinger's assistant with the reserves. Thomas Bogendorfer steps into the goalkeeping void from the Rapid academy.(gw)
18.04.2011