Maccabi Netanya Secures Crucial Win Over Kiryat Shmona Amidst Controversy

Maccabi Netanya ended a four-game winless streak by defeating Ironi Kiryat Shmona 1-0 on Saturday, with Matheus Dabo scoring the decisive goal from a penalty in the 74th minute at the Meryem Stadium. "We understood this game was very important for us and the opponent, so there was certainly pressure from everything surrounding football, and it was evident," stated Maccabi Netanya coach Ronny Levy. He added that his team started well, created scoring chances, but the game became difficult, praising his players for securing the win "by force." Levy also addressed the substitution of four players in the second half, explaining it was to change momentum after a slow start and to manage players with yellow cards. He defended the team's ability to meet its goals, acknowledging a recent slump but expressing confidence in the team's strength and the need for a winning streak.

Maccabi Netanya player Aylon Almog described the victory as "like birth pangs, it was hard and in the end, it's the sweetest." He noted Levy's instruction to change the game and expressed personal belief in his abilities, aiming to be a significant contributor. Almog also commented on fan reactions, stating it's the fans' right to express emotions and that the team needs their support.

Ironi Kiryat Shmona coach Shi Brada expressed frustration with the officiating, noting that a player's leg was "swollen and bloody" without elaborating further, but stating he didn't want to sound like a complainer. He questioned if Amadou had injured himself and acknowledged that his team played well and missed many chances, lamenting that they conceded a penalty from "nothing." Brada admitted to a problem in the attacking third, where the team fails to convert numerous opportunities, and vowed to find solutions.

Ironi Kiryat Shmona goalkeeper Daniel Tannenbaum voiced disappointment, highlighting the team's difficult period with five consecutive losses. He felt the team played well but conceded a goal from a penalty, characterizing their season as playing well without earning points. Tannenbaum expressed faith in his teammates to overcome the tough stretch.