Scheffknecht to lead Austria to double win against Bulgaria

There was a sigh of relief in the Austrian women's team camp when left back Beate Schneffknecht reported fit in time for the upcoming EHF EURO 2016 qualifiers against Bulgaria on 9 and 12 March.

The Thüringer HC left back had recently bruised her ribs two weeks ago, but she was back on court already on Wednesday for her club's German Bundesliga match against SG BBM Bietigheim.

Even though Scheffknecht might not be at 100 per cent yet, Austrian head coach counts on her.

"I hope that Beata will fully recover quickly. Without her our game against Bulgaria would be on the edge, but I'm confident that she will be able to play.

"Either way, we have to win both games," says Müller.

Austria lost their first two qualifiers in Group 3 against Spain and Netherlands and are under pressure if they want to keep their chances to qualify for the Women's EHF EURO 2016.

While Scheffknecht will join the team, Austria have to replace injured players Altina Berisha, Melanie Herrmann Ines Ivancok and Klara Stanic.

"We have to be at our best and take four points from these two games," says Müller who is wary of Bulgaria's Elizabeth Omorogie.

"She is a very dangerous player who can play on all backcourt positions.

"She is also the team leader and one of Bulgaria's best shooters," says Müller.

Austria will first travel to Bulgaria to play on 9 March, the return match will take place on 12 March in Bregenz, Austria.

Photo: ÖHB / Sebastian Pucher