Hapoel Be'er Sheva Coach Criticizes Refereeing After Loss, Looks Ahead
Hapoel Be'er Sheva coach Ran Kozuch addressed the team's upcoming busy schedule and recent loss to Maccabi Tel Aviv in a press conference. The team faces three matches in six days before the international break, including a league game against Hapoel Petah Tikva, a Europa League match against Dinamo Zagreb in Romania, and a home game against Ironi Kiryat Shmona. Be'er Sheva will be without injured Lucas Ventura and suspended Eliel Peretz, requiring other players to step up.
Kozuch commented on the team's 4-1 defeat to Maccabi Tel Aviv, stating, "The level of refereeing was low, but I can't blame that. I blame what's in my hands, and that's my team. We are talking about how to stay in our zone and understand what depends on us." He acknowledged the team's need to improve and focus on controllable aspects.
Regarding team strengthening, Kozuch indicated that if a player who can upgrade the team, particularly in midfield, is found before the transfer window closes next week, they might sign someone. He also anticipates some players might leave on loan. He expressed confidence in the current squad's ability to fill necessary positions, despite not signing two forwards as initially planned.
Looking ahead to the match against Hapoel Petah Tikva, Kozuch expects a tough game, noting that while the team has changed, it still possesses a good coach and exhibits characteristics similar to its previous successful season. He also mentioned that player Zlatanovic is expected to be fine.
Player Guy Mzerahi echoed the coach's sentiments, admitting the team was "too soft" against Maccabi Tel Aviv and suffered a setback. He emphasized the need to recover quickly and return to their style of play. Mzerahi also spoke about the team's ambition to reach the Champions League again by winning the league and highlighted the competitive nature of the current squad, where hard work earns playing time. He confirmed the team has moved past their Champions League qualifying elimination and is focused on their Europa League participation.
