week 30 - match preview

Slomka expects tough Cottbus test

Energie Cottbus are one of the surprise packages in the current campaign. Initially tipped by most pundits to go straight back down to Division 2, they are just a few points shy of safety with five matches left to play. The Brandenburg outfit guest at the VELTINS Arena this Saturday (kick-off: 1530 CET). And Schalke boss Mirko Slomka has formulated a plan to break down the Cottbus defence.

At today's press conference Slomka cautioned against underestimating Saturday's visitors: "Cottbus have won their last three away matches in Dortmund, Berlin and Frankfurt. They've also picked up 21 points since the mid-season break, exactly the same as Werder Bremen."

For Slomka, the east German side have been one of the positive manifestations of this season. "The club, the coach and the entire team warrant plenty of respect", he said, fully expecting the visitors to be highly motivated on Saturday. "It would be a decisive step towards survival if they could pick up some points." He therefore feels it will be a tough, physical battle, yet another test for his players in the run-in.

Vlad Munteanu and Sergiu Radu were particularly dangerous players, especially on the break, Slomka added. "Along with us Cottbus have the league's best counterattacking record. Thirteen goals are an indication of their tremendous pace, precision and attacking threat."

There was therefore only one conclusion. "We need to keep things tight at the back and can't afford to make any mistakes", said Slomka, hoping for a repeat of last Saturday's assured defensive performance during the 3-0 win in Mainz. "That would allow us to create chances going forward and take advantage of any weaknesses in the Cottbus rearguard."

As against Hertha BSC Berlin and Borussia Mönchengladbach, the Royal Blues will be looking to apply controlled pressure and then strike in clinical fashion. And Slomka has already pinpointed one conspicuous frailty in the Cottbus defence: Patrick Sander's team have already 13 goals from crosses this season.