Jordi Cruyff, the Maccabi Tel Aviv Head Coach addressed the media at the post match press conference following his club’s 2:1 win over Kiryat Shemona on Matchday 15 of the Israel Premier League:
“We had chances but we don’t finish games off like last week and today. Instead of playing 60 minutes and finishing it off we have to play 95 minutes. We have to find a way to kill off a game. The players have played well with a lot of intensity.”
Goals:
“Both goals were off crosses from the right to Vidar and Nick, but we gave up a goal in the 45’ and that’s something we can’t do.”
About Nick Blackman:
“When a team doesn’t play well it’s hard but he’s stepped up. He’s big and is able to hold the ball. He’s scoring good goals and his connection with the teammates are getting better. He’s a different kind of player and something that the Israel National team needs a player like that who can take long balls.”
Winning convincingly:
“Even though we played well, we have to kill off games and I can’t be happy with that. We have to win convincingly and not suffer.”
Eyal Golasa not playing:
“He was a bit overused and tired. When he is feeling good he can play well, but when he can’t give 100% maybe it’s better to have another player that can.”
Fighting for a spot in the squad:
“It’s very clear, a player must be unhappy when he’s not playing but has to show team spirit. It’s good to have a competitive squad and to have the players fight for the squad. Any player on this team can be on the bench.”
Love for Tel Aviv:
“I like this club, city and people. Being here for 6 years really speaks for itself.”
Juan Pablo:
“I have a very good relation with Juan Pablo. It was a very painful moment as a sport director. It was difficult if it was fair or unfair. After a few moths those moments were gone, we have a great relationship.”
