Hapoel Petah Tikva Coach Celebrates Crucial Win After Losing Streak

Hapoel Petah Tikva secured a vital 2-1 victory over Hapoel Ramat Gan on Saturday, ending a seven-game losing streak and lifting them from the bottom of the league table. The win brings them level on points with their relegation rivals. Boni Amian and Roi Levi scored the goals for Hapoel Petah Tikva, who will now head into the international break with renewed optimism.

"One win and everything shines and flourishes," said Hapoel Petah Tikva coach Omer Peretz after the match. "The performance wasn't good enough, and we won't fool ourselves. But it's nice to feel a win, and the players deserve it. There were many good things, and we had bad minutes at the start of the second half, but we managed to finish the game with a win. We're going into the break in the best possible way."

Peretz also addressed the team's need for stronger character and more depth, stating, "In many games we lost, we lacked the passion. We need players with strong character. Professionally, I'm looking for more depth and more chances created. We will continue to work on these things." He also commented on the team's appeal against a technical loss, asserting, "The referees take all the blame on themselves regarding the substitutions. The result was not affected by this, and the point should remain with us."

Noyam Cohen, the midfielder who provided two assists, expressed his excitement about his first start and the team's need for points. "We opened the game well. I was excited, it was my first time in the starting lineup. The team needed points like air to breathe. The crowd was a significant part of the win, and I'm happy about the three points." Cohen also dedicated his performance to his late grandfather, Slava Brazilai, whom he considers a second father.

Hapoel Ramat Gan coach Msay Dago acknowledged that his team conceded "too easy" goals and lost valuable points. "We reached the box, but lacked a finishing touch in the second half. There's a break now, and we will continue to work hard towards another crucial game against Hapoel Kiryat Shmona." Dago expressed confidence in his ability to turn the team's fortunes around, stating, "I am unequivocally the right person to get the team out of its situation. There aren't big gaps between the teams, apart from the top five or six teams. I will make all the necessary changes, and I am sure we will get out of this."