Image: APA/GEORG HOCHMUTH
Early yesterday afternoon, SV Guntamatic Ried made their way to Vienna to stay in a hotel near the FAC pitch. For the Rieder footballers, who started the second division season with two draws, the process is familiar. On July 30, Rieder played against FAC, in whose stadium the newly promoted Lower Austrian and today’s opponent Stripfing also plays their home games. The Stripfinger started with two defeats in the first second division season in the club’s history. In defense, they rely on the routine of Markus Lackner, who a few days ago canceled his contract, which was actually valid until 2024.
The 32-year-old has played 75 competitive games for the Innviertler over the past three years, but after relegation he no longer played a role in coach Maximilian Senft’s plans. “The descent was definitely the most bitter moment of my entire career, I struggled with it but unfortunately it wasn’t enough for us. I’m also critical of my own achievements. Of course, the last few weeks in Ried were anything but easy for me”says Lackner in an interview with the OÖN.
Now he wants to quickly earn a regular place at SV Stripfing. He is looking forward to the duel against his former club. “I didn’t have a chance to say goodbye to my teammates personally in Ried. I can do that before or after the game. In general, I will keep the time in Ried in good and beautiful memories”says Lackner, who also met his girlfriend in Upper Austria.
Ried as title favorite
For Lackner, the starting position before today’s game is very clear: “For me, Ried and Sankt Pölten are the big favorites for the title. For us it’s about staying up. The pressure is definitely on SV Ried. The longer we can keep the game open, the more rooms will open up. Of course we hope and speculate on a surprise against Ried”says Lackner.
Source: Nachrichten
