Following his side’s 4:1 victory over Hapoel Raanana, Shahar Piven, the Yellow & Blue central defender spoke about a myriad of topics from how to pronounce his last name, being mentally strong, the coach’s belief in the players on the squad as well as having the opportunity to play:
“There were many games including National Team games, so the coach had no problem giving the younger players who have come back from loan the stage to perform. I’m happy to have had the chance and I hope to make a mark on the pitch.”
Playing well and being mentally strong:
“We played well today but it’s still the beginning of the league. We are a strong and quality team with a young squad along with many veterans who help us out a lot. Everyone makes mistakes as I did in the Beer Sheva match, but the most important thing is to continue on and play well and be mentally strong on the pitch. I had a good second half and we’re just at the start of our way.”
About the coach’s belief in the players on the squad:
“I’ve been doing what I’ve done my whole career which is to train hard and there are things that aren’t in my control including what is written in the press. The coach wouldn’t keep players if he didn’t believe in them and he believes in each player who is in the squad. Every match he puts in the best Starting XI.”
Improving:
“This is the profession that I’ve chosen. When I was in the second division I always wanted to play with lots of fans and pressure as that improves us as players and it makes us better.”
How to pronounce his last name:
“It’s Piven.”
