Hapoel Haifa Coach Haim Silvas Praises Team's Character After Dramatic Win

Hapoel Haifa secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Maccabi Petah Tikva in a chaotic football match, with Sali Fahima scoring the winning goal deep into stoppage time. The win came after a goal by Itay Zafrani was disallowed earlier in the game.

Following the match, Hapoel Haifa coach Haim Silvas described the win as "dramatic and fun," emphasizing that it "shows character" and that the team "deserved to win." While pleased with the result, Silvas expressed dissatisfaction with his team's performance, noting a lack of control and fewer opportunities than desired. He acknowledged the fragility he felt during the game, referencing a previous 1-1 draw that could have cost them points. Silvas was particularly happy that substitutes, including Zafrani and Fahima, managed to score.

Maccabi Petah Tikva coach Ziv Ariyeh commented on the "low energy" of both teams, describing his players as "tired and heavy." He pointed out that this was the fourth time in five games that his team conceded an early goal. Ariyeh felt his team was "naive" and that they "chased" the game, struggling after conceding. He stated that despite the loss, they had "a point in hand" at one stage and are "moving on."

Maccabi Petah Tikva player Guy Dezent believes his team is "excellent" but needs to address their energy levels at the start of games. He hopes this will be a wake-up call for the "talented team" as they aim to secure their league status as early as possible.