BVB women expect a “highly motivated SSV Rhade” | OneFootball

The scenarioA narrow but thoroughly deserved victory: that’s how last Sunday’s 1–0 away win can be summed up. Head coach Markus Högner also expressed his satisfaction in retrospect: “We defended our lead against Mecklenbeck with confidence and didn’t allow the opposition a single chance on goal right until the end. A second goal would, of course, have made for a less stressful final few minutes – but against such a well-organised opponent, it’s certainly a challenge to find the right gaps.” Now two points behind leaders Cologne, the team remains in the running.

Personnel mattersThe BVB women have no injury concerns ahead of their home match against SSV Rhade. “Marina Scholz did have some minor thigh problems after the game in Mecklenbeck,” reports Markus Högner. “But I expect her to be back in full training this weekend and therefore an option for Sunday.”

The oppositionBVB face SSV Rhade, a team currently sitting 12th in the Regionalliga West table and embroiled in a relegation battle. Yet even though the Dorsten-based club’s last victory was around six weeks ago, BVB coach Markus Högner expects a highly motivated opponent: “With Sammy Messalkhi, a tactically astute coach took charge at Rhade in the autumn. He has set the team up well and also strengthened the defence.” Therefore, the Black and Yellows must create plenty of chances through good positional play, lots of movement off the ball and with their own fans behind them, in order to secure the next three points – just as they did in the 7-0 victory in the first leg.

Patience in the season’s final stretchAs well as the clash with SSV Rhade, the month of May holds four further league matches in store for the Borussia Dortmund women’s team against sides largely situated in the middle of the table. These are encounters in which they will be the favourites, facing opponents who tend to sit deep and fight with great determination. “Such tests of patience can be draining,” says Markus Högner. “But if we stick to our game plan, implement what we’ve practised in training and avoid rushing into action, we’ll master these challenges too.”

The match against SSV Rhade kicks off this coming Sunday at 15:00 CEST at the Rote Erde. Tickets are available from the online ticket shop and cost €3.00 (standing) or €5.00 (seated). The match will also be broadcast live on Pluto TV. As always, the Borussia women’s team look forward to your vocal support!

Robert Targan