Shota Arveladze, the Yellow & Blue boss looked back at the 2:1 win and the European campaign that was as Maccabi was eliminated from Europa League play following Alkmaar’s 3:2 win over Zenit. The Georgian coach spoke about the atmosphere, the game that was and his disappointment in not advancing:
“It’s hard to be so close but yet so far. Of course we collected some very important points, we won and playing in this terrific atmosphere in the Netanya Stadium is important for the boys. But it wasn’t in our own hands and the result in Holland decided our fate.”
About the game that was:
“We had some great parts and it reminded me of some of the things that this team can do. It’s very difficult to play against Dundalk and they play organized football. We played 8 plus 6 games in our European campaign that started on June 30th and it was quite long, but we represented the club and the country well.”
Game that made the difference in the campaign:
“Losing the game against Zenit at home after being up 3:0 changed the way we played in Ireland and we had to play differently. After a collapse and disaster in the 77th minute that was it.”
The defense:
“I don’t think we gave them too many chances. The defenders all had a reasonable games as did everyone else. Sometimes we have some problems, so when you score you will have less issues. When you score, you concede less.”
Being the coach on Sunday:
“I am not the one who decides that.”
Changing the atmosphere:
“I think we all saw the cheering the stadium and excitement and they all felt good. We gave them the confidence and they knew that they could show what they can do.”
Looking ahead:
“We will give more competition to the players and that they should know that nothing is guaranteed. We have two tournaments to go with the State Cup and the Israeli League.”
About Vidar Kjartansson:
“He had a great game today and worked hard. He must score goals and he knows his job, we are waiting and we believe in him.”
