VAR Controversy Mars Beitar Jerusalem's Draw

Beitar Jerusalem conceded a 98th-minute equalizer from a controversial penalty, settling for a 1-1 draw at home against Ironi Kiryat Shmona in the Israeli Premier League. Beitar's assistant coach, Aviram Brokian, expressed strong disappointment, stating that the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) should have intervened to disallow the penalty, which he was certain was not a foul. "We were sure the VAR would intervene and it didn't happen. It's very disappointing," Brokian said, adding that the call in the late stages of a heated match was unacceptable. He acknowledged that his team could have secured the win earlier but lamented the loss of two points.

Brokian also commented on his team's offensive performance, noting they created many half-chances and need more hunger to convert them into goals. He mentioned that Almog Cohen received a red card and Moshe Ohayon would cover for him, expressing hope that his absence wouldn't be felt. Beitar Jerusalem is preparing for their next match against Tiberias.

On the opposing side, Ironi Kiryat Shmona coach Shai Birad expressed happiness with the point, acknowledging it was a difficult period for his team. He defended his team's performance, stating they created enough chances against a strong Beitar side. Birad suggested that his team played with some insecurity as a new unit but is optimistic about future improvements. He also raised questions about other borderline penalty calls that went against Kiryat Shmona earlier in the season, including a potential foul on player Amado against Maccabi Netanya.

Birad concluded by saying he was willing to trade all the refereeing mistakes from the start of the season to settle the score. He emphasized that his team needs to make adjustments and that while it takes time, they will do their best with the current squad.