Hapoel Petah Tikva Fan Assaulted by Security Guard During Match, Speaks from Hospital

Liam Talcar, a 22-year-old Hapoel Petah Tikva fan, was assaulted by a security guard during the match against Maccabi Netanya on August 5. Speaking from his hospital bed at Beilinson Hospital, Talcar described how the incident occurred during halftime. While trying to help a young boy near the fence, a security guard suddenly struck him in the head with a baton, causing a bleeding injury.

Talcar recounted that the same guard had behaved aggressively towards fans at the stadium entrance, demanding they empty their pockets despite having nothing on them. He criticized the security company and league management for allowing such behavior, questioning the safety of sports venues for families and children.

He also shared the emotional moment when he saw videos of the attack circulating online, shown to him by his younger brother. Talcar expressed shock at the guard's hostile and contemptuous demeanor during the assault, emphasizing that security personnel are supposed to protect fans, not harm them.

The incident has raised concerns about security practices at Israeli football matches and the treatment of fans by stadium staff.