Sirius led the Allsvenskan three games ago with 14 points, but after a draw and two consecutive losses, the gap has narrowed to six points after Hammarby's win over Gais. The Bajenspelarna feel they have gotten a whiff and also believe that Sirius feels the pressure in the back of their neck.
– The key for us is to focus on our own game so that we don't look too far ahead and lose. I checked out the match and it was nice that they lost, because like with Mjällby last year when the gap is so big, it's hard to feel like you're behind and panting. Now you feel a bit more that we're not so far away, but at the same time we focus on our own game, says Paulos Abraham.
What's happening now?
Tesfaldet Tekie is on the same track.
– If we had been in their position, we would also have been stressed. It was 14 points and now it's down to six, so they need to worry. But we focus on ourselves. We must win our matches, it doesn't matter what they do. But as long as we do our job, I don't see any obstacles why we shouldn't catch up with them.
Goalkeeper Warner Hahn believes that Sirius is unaccustomed to this situation.
– Of course, Sirius feels the pressure now. Now Sirius must get used to other expectations to live up to, when they're at the top. Expectations like Malmö, Hammarby, AIK, Djurgården and even IFK Göteborg, there's always pressure from the supporters, because the size of the club often determines it. I think they feel the pressure. But we do too, because we in Hammarby must win every match ahead.
What does Sirius say?
Henrik Rydström also sends a pass to Sirius coach Andreas Engelmark, who last week did a frank podcast interview that became talked about.
How do you think Sirius sees that now there are only six points between them – and that they see you perform as you do against Gais?
– Hehe... no idea. But I'm glad it's only six points. And that we play good football. You can listen to a podcast so maybe you'll get some explanation there, says Rydström and laughs.
