LASK sets the pace in title race with 3:0 opening win against GAK

Statistics underscore Linz dominance

A second major GAK chance was squandered by Anthony Smits shortly before the end, when he headed wide from close range. In the 90th+1 minute, GAK thus missed the opportunity to at least make the scoreline look a little more respectable. LASK, by contrast, saw the match out with composure and brought the advantage comfortably over the finish line.

GAK struggles with a lack of cutting edge

With the opening win, LASK has sent a strong signal to the competition. After winning the league title last season, the side from the "Trainerthron" in Linz clearly intends to be in the mix again this season and set the tone early on. The manner of the performance suggests that the Linz side have done their homework in pre-season and are approaching the campaign with clear self-belief.

Opening statement to the league

At GAK, by contrast, disappointment is likely to be great. After a pre-season that had raised hopes of more, the team looked bereft of ideas and lacking in cutting edge in Linz. Coach Ferdinand Feldhofer will need to work intensively with his team in the coming days on their coordination and attacking threat in order to avoid slipping out of touch with the upper third of the table early on.

LASK now turn their attention to their next league fixture, where the side will look to carry their momentum forward. If the performance from the opener is reproduced, plenty can be expected of the Linz side this season. The competition in the Bundesliga has been put on notice: the defending champion is ready and proved impressively on matchday one that they must be taken seriously.