Rapid revel after Salzburg 'catastrophe'

Sunday's 7-0 home loss against Austrian title rivals SK Rapid Wien prompted FC Salzburg coach Giovanni Trapattoni to say: "That was no defeat – that was a catastrophe."

Unenviable first
History was made in Austria on Sunday as champions Salzburg suffered their heaviest home defeat in the Bundesliga to concede top spot in the table to Rapid, and leave Italian coach Giovanni Trapatonni shellshocked. "That was no defeat - that was a catastrophe," said the future Republic of Ireland manager. "In 40 years as a professional I have never conceded seven goals, as a player or a coach. We have to find out what has happened here."

Emergency surgery
Salzburg, who won the title by a massive 21-point margin last season, were four goals down within the first 17 minutes of the crucial game, with Erwin Hoffer doing his hopes of a place in Austria's UEFA EURO 2008™ squad no harm with a hat-trick. "The whole team played for a missing colleague today," he said. "I dedicate my goals to Markus Katzer." Rapid defender Katzer underwent emergency appendix surgery this week and will most likely miss for the rest of the season.

'A team player'
Stefan Maierhofer also had a profitable afternoon up front, scoring twice for Rapid, and said: "We have put in a great performance today and while goals are of course the most important thing for a striker, I also set up two other goals – I am a team-player." Rapid now hold the whip hand as they battle to claim a first title since 2004/05, but Maierhofer remains cautious. "There are still five rounds to go – a lot can happen," he said.

Pacult rejoices
Rapid coach Peter Pacult was thrilled with his side, who took full advantage of problems for Salzburg linchpins Alexander Zickler and Niko Kovac. "It was sensational the way we played today," said the former Austria striker. "I have always said that I wanted to have a go at Salzburg without Zickler and Kovac. Alex was not fully fit today and Niko was sidelined. Every time we had a shot on goal, we scored. That is of course demoralising for any opponent."

Zickler apology
Salzburg captain Zickler was suitably downcast. "I have to apologise to the fans. We have to make amends now. I have never played in a match that was decided so quickly." Trapattoni added: "I thought my players looked stunned right from the kick-off. I tried to shake them up at half-time, but seven seconds into the second half we conceded another goal. We don't need punishments now, but have to forget this match. The chance for the title is still there."