Having arrived in Genk safely, the Rapid squad got used to their surroundings yesterday afternoon and made their way via a short bus journey to the north of this small belgian town for a final training session in Genk’s Cristal Arena.  Heavy showers welcomed the players to the pitch and the high intensity training session went off without a hitch. Despite the soggy conditions a focussed and motivated Rapid made the most of their time on the Genk pitch. "We're looking forward to this game", said skipper Steffen Hofmann, who added: „Genk is a good side, there is a reaqson why they currently top the group. They are favourites - but we are here to get a result." Rapid's most recent clashes with Belgian sides (FC Brugges in the Champions League, RSC Anderlecht in the UEFA-Cup) haven't gone our way - but Steffen Hofmann popped up with goals in both matches. "I wasn’t aware of that", chuckled Hofmann, "but if i score again and we take the points then that’ll do me!"Another Rapid player from the game in Brugges stopped by to say hello. Ex-Rapid striker Axel Lawaree paid a visit to say hi to our Captain, his last remaining collegue from the game in Brugges. The Belgian shared a couple of insider tips on ways Rapid might steal a march on Genk this evening. Trainer Zoran Barisic also sees Genk as favourites, but is nonetheless looking forward to a "challenge, but a great challenge", that lies in store. "Genk hast he chance to edge towards winning the group. But we’re not here to make up the numbers and know what we need to do to take points from the game."Opposition Trainer Mario Been was cautious in his views on the Green & Whites prospects: "Rapid will give everything to win here in Genk. They want to take the chance to get back into contention." Thats exactly what the 1,400 travelling Rapid fans will be hoping: the suprise effect to be sprung. (gw)
24.10.2013