Coach
Yuval Naim is still the man of the hour for Ashkelon and is one of the stars of the show. Last season, Naim was able to guide his squad to another campaign in the promised land after very few experts gave them a chance of staying up in the Premier League. So far this season Naim has been able to capitalize on the experience earned and will look to ensure that his club doesn’t have to go through a tough relegation battle as they did last year.
Comings & Goings
Naim made a number of signings over the summer and upgraded his squad with the likes of Elad Gabbay, Oz Raly and Tal Ayala who was with Hapoel Kfar Saba last season. In addition, Saar Benbenishti, Sean Malca, Ramzi Sfori and La Liga veteran Milan Smiljanić also joined the team. There were also a number of players who departed including Isso Lingane, Raz Meir, David Manga and Tomer Suissa.
What they’ve done so far
Unlike last season when Ashkelon was battling against relegation, they are currently sitting in 7th place with 7 points after 5 Matchdays. After a slow start, Naim’s side currently has a two match win streak after picking up victories against Hapoel Acre and Hapoel Raanana.
Under the magnifying glass
Is this Tal Ayala’s season? Last campaign with Hapoel Kfar Saba, the attacking midfielder wasn’t able to reach the potential that he seems to be striving for so far this season. Ayala is currently in fine form and has scored 3 goals while adding an assist. Mirko Oremus also has three markers while former Maccabi man Rudy Hadad who was a lock in Naim’s lineup last season, has been a critical component so far this campaign as well.
Last season against Maccabi
Matchday 12: Maccabi Tel Aviv – Ashkelon 0:0
Matchday 25: Hapoel Ashkelon – Maccabi Tel Aviv
