GAIS have collected just four points from their last five matches in Allsvenskan. However, coach Fredrik Holmberg views the slump as a necessary phase that will strengthen the team for the future.
"Yes, this period is useful for all of us," says Holmberg. He points to a mental challenge the team is facing. "We are in a period where you don't take charge on the pitch yourself but hope that someone else will do the job."
The team's form has been inconsistent. Following an impressive 4-0 victory over Brommapojkarna at the end of August, which Holmberg described as one of the best matches he has seen, things have gotten tougher. The loss to Djurgården and the draw against Häcken have contributed to a points haul that leaves the team in tenth place in the table with 30 points from 22 games. That means there are nine matches remaining.
The injury situation has not helped. Key players like Gustav Lundgren, Kevin Holmén, and Frosti Thorkelsson have been absent, forcing adjustments to the starting lineup. Midfielder Joackim Fagerjord is one of the players who has had to take on greater responsibility during this time.
Despite the poor run, an important win arrived last time out. On Saturday, GAIS defeated Mjällby 3-0 away, a match where Nikola Vasic scored twice. That victory broke a negative streak and shows the team still has quality. Their recent form shows three wins, one draw, and one loss from the last five matches.
With 28 goals scored and only 20 conceded, GAIS have the fourth-best defence in the league. The attack has struggled, however, with top scorer S. Salter on six goals so far. The team is 21 points behind league leaders Sirius, who also become the next opponent.
The upcoming match is a major challenge. GAIS host Sirius at home on October 10th. To handle the league leaders, the whole team needs to take responsibility, not only hope others will. Holmberg's message is clear: this tough period should teach the team to stand on its own feet. Check the full fixtures schedule to see the rest of the autumn season. The team's current standing can be followed in our standings page.
After the meeting with Sirius, eight more decisive matches await in the hunt for a stable mid-table position. The team's goal is to finish the season strongly and build on the lessons learned from a difficult month.
The report in full is at Fotbollskanalen
