Osher Davida is experiencing a purple match as the 23-year-old winger scored two goals and assisted three more in Maccabi’s last three outings. Davida, who scored his second league goal this season in the 5-1 victory over Ashdod took his tally to six in all competitions.
Ahead of Saturday’s league match away to Ironi Tiberias, Davida, who is set to make his 70th appearance for Maccabi, said: “We remember the first match against them which was played behind closed doors at Bloomfield due to the (security) situation, which is also a good chance to wish for all the hostages to be returned home as quick as possible. We can’t forget that match, they made good results against the big clubs recently. We are not going to change too many things to our preparations just like we prepare for every match. We will know how to make the necessary adaptations and hope to win this match.”
On the fact Maccabi scored 19 goals in the last 6 outings both in the league, State Cup and Toto Cup, Davida said: “I think that recently we are bonding more in terms of our attack. It was clear to me that it will come, we spend more time with each other, let us hope we continue this way.”
After a hectic schedule which saw Maccabi play 11 matches in the space of 38 days and before starting another run – the team enjoyed a week of preparations.
“Wow, we haven’t had that for a long time. It was fun, we had two days of rest, and now we begin a spell of 7 matches in 20 or so days. Ultimately, to play matches every three days is a lot of fun.”
Trying to explain what it feels like to face tight defenses, week in week out, Davida said: “What worked (against Ashdod) worked against Maccabi Petah Tikva as well. In the first half we tried playing in our way but conceded from counter attacks. At halftime, the coach reminded us of what we are working on in training and managed to put us back on track. As soon as we did it in the second half, played with patience – the goals came.”
Davida, who assisted Eran Zahavi’s goal with a pinpoint cross, spoke of playing alongside the veteran marksman: “When people outside the game speak about a player who score a goal or two, they say he must start, and when he doesn’t score, they knock him down. As you all know Eran is the biggest professional there is regardless, if he plays or not, he remains the same and gives everything. I really enjoy playing alongside him, as you all know who Eran is – the same player he was last season. Every minute he receives he gives everything, and to score goals he knows better than anyone.”
