Jordi Cruyff looked back at Maccabi Tel Aviv’s 2:1 win at Beitar Jerusalem on Matchday 14 of the Israel Premier League Ligat Ha’Al:
“I think the first half was very good. The second half we had a few chances to make it 0:3 but we couldn’t score and then Beitar came with a set piece and the match became difficult and physical with a lot of long balls. But we defended well and the players had some tough games over the last few weeks and credit to them and the fans who gave us huge support. I’m happy for them and I hope we gained confidence from this result.”
Playing with effort:
“At least in our intensity on the pitch it was a turning point, but just that doesn’t win games you also need to score and play better. There are things we need to improve but when Maccabi plays with this effort, the owner and coaching staff sees that it pays off and the fans support even more when the players give more than 100%.”
Eli Dasa:
“He brings us special energy and was injured for 4.5 months. We had Golasa out for a long time and Micha as well. Jose was out and is still trying to get back his fitness. But when you have all of the players there is competition and choices will be difficult for me but it’s a good sign for the club. It’s 3 points and now we have to move on to Saturday. No time to rest.”
Recovering the points lost:
“I know that the owner is backing me by 200% and I knew that from day one even after making bad signings he’s always supported me. I never really felt the pressure too much but I felt bad that we had 3 points in hand and we left with 1 point. We lost too many points and now’s the time to recover them.”
About Vidar Kjartansson:
“Vidar is good when you have a lot of presents in the visitors box but when it was 0:2 and 1:2 it was physical with a lot of long balls. Aaron is a taller player and he can compete for those and hold them better. Golasa played a very good game but at some point the battery is dead and it has to be refreshed. Let’s not fool ourselves, Vidar is the most clinical finisher in the club and I’m sure there will be plenty of games for him and the team will need him for sure.”
