Maccabi Tel Aviv picked up their 15th win of the WINNER League season by defeating Maccabi Petach Tikva 3:1 on a goal by Nosa Igiebor and a brace by Eran Zahavi. The captain summed up the victory, discussed his goals and also commented on Gili Vermouth’s status with the club:

“Petach Tikva had a number of chances but we just had more. We should have finished off this match in the first half. I’m happy that we won, played many minutes of good football and that we pressured our opponent which we did last year and the year before. For some reason they didn’t let us water the grass before the first half and I don’t know why. Since we were the hosts then we should have been able to decide these types of things.”

On the gorgeous first half goal:

“I’m really happy about how amazing that goal was. Micha made an terrific pass. That was one of my top 10 goals of all time. But above all, I’m happy that we won the game.”

About Beer Sheva who plays after Maccabi on Sunday night:

“I really don’t concern myself with Beer Sheva, but how we collect points and how we continue to improve as a team. That’s the only way we will keep getting results.”

The latest on Gili Vermouth:

“There are moments in one’s career as a professional footballer that just aren’t that simple. Moments when you just have to keep your chin up. It was not that easy for Gili to come over and play for Maccabi, but over the last half year he has played well and has done some really good things for the club. There is a new coach here now and the situation is not an easy one, but with hard work he can change that situation and get some opportunities. If he leaves, I’ll be disappointed for him and for the club because he is a great player. I do everything I can to help all of the Maccabi players.”