Iron Will Drives Ironi Tiberias to Stay in Premier League Despite Point Deduction

Ironi Tiberias is set to begin its third consecutive season in the Israeli Premier League this Saturday, facing Hapoel Petah Tikva in the opening round. Ahead of the 2026/27 season, club owner Aryeh Klamzon addressed supporters at the team's traditional pre-season banquet on Tuesday, emphasizing the club's determination to remain in the league despite challenges. Klamzon acknowledged external pressures and doubters who expect Tiberias to struggle, saying, "Many at the top want Tiberias to be the punching bag of the league. Let them keep dreaming."

He detailed the club's efforts to strengthen the team and build a professional support structure, introducing a management "beehive" that includes key figures such as Shimon Hadari, who will serve as owners' representative and liaison between management, legal, and coaching staff. Maurice Ozen returns as a professional advisor, providing real-time tactical insights during matches. The coaching team is led by head coach Moti Krispil, supported by Alon Ziv, Din Maimon, goalkeeper coach Dudu Gorash, and fitness coach Yaniv Madar.

Klamzon praised the players for choosing to join Ironi Tiberias amid a turbulent period, calling their commitment "an immense source of pride for the city." He reminded fans that despite starting the season with a six-point deduction, the club's history is one of resilience and hard work. "Anyone who thought the six-point penalty would bring us down will find on Saturday it only fuels our hunger to prove what fighters we are," he said. Klamzon vowed that every point earned will be sweeter and every victory a blow to the critics, concluding, "We will stay in the Premier League this season despite all the naysayers. Raise your heads, believe in the team, and show everyone what you're made of. On Saturday, we go to battle. Go Tiberias!"