Head-to-head clash won
However, with their rivals from Vienna-Hütteldorf showing little sign of weakness, the pressure on Salzburg to avoid dropping points continues to mount.
"Rapid set the mark on Friday and we can respond again. That goes to show that both teams currently have to play at their absolute limit to finish on top this year. It's going to be a lot of fun for everyone involved," said the head coach, fully aware of the challenge.
Rapid have been almost flawless in nearly every match this season. Their only setback was a 5-1 thrashing in their head-to-head clash against the Mozart city side in early September.
"I don't know if there's been a title race like this in recent years. Last year, the league leaders had 37 points after 22 rounds. Now Rapid already have 33 after 12 rounds and we have 30. That shows what kind of points tally you need this season," Röhl added.
For context: Last year, Salzburg led the table after twelve rounds with 24 points. Rapid had one point less, while WAC and Sturm were three points behind. However, the title ultimately went to LASK, who were eight points adrift at that stage.
Margin for error is razor-thin
The "Bulls" coach also acknowledged LASK's development: "We have to keep going. Neither team will give an inch. LASK are always in the mix as well and pulled off a huge comeback last year. For neutral spectators, it's a thrilling season. It's going to be a tight race."
Because despite convincing big-match wins against LASK, Rapid, and twice against Sturm, FC Red Bull Salzburg sit only in second place.
However, it is precisely the supposedly "smaller" opponents that have proved to be stumbling blocks so far. In a tight title race, that is where Salzburg can ill afford any more slip-ups.
