Luzon out after Haifa heartache

FOOTBALL Guy Luzon was sacked by Maccabi Haifa after last weekend’s 1-1 draw at home to Hapoel Ashkelon, which left the Greens in seventh place in Ligat Ha’Al.

The former Charlton and Israel under-21 boss had replaced Sir Alex Ferguson’s former assistant Rene Meulensteen in February but failed to improve the club’s fortunes.

“I came to Maccabi Haifa and took on the major challenge of transforming the past six years into something much better,” said Luzon. “Regretfully, it didn’t work out. I’ve only got good things to say about the club, the fans and everybody who worked with me.”

Luzon is the eighth manager to be sacked since Maccabi last won the title in 2011. Deputy coach Rob Maas will take charge of the team on an interim basis. Maor Melikson believes Hapoel Be’er Sheva must stay focused in order to retain their title following the 3-1 win over Bnei Sakhnin which helped them return to the top of the division.

Second-half goals from Matan Ohayon, Ben Sahar and Melikson helped Hapoel recover from Idan Shemesh’s early strike. “If we continue to show such capability, the results will come”, said Melikson who sealed the win with an 88th minute strike.

Hapoel Haifa winger Radu Gînsari has apologised for pushing Ashdod manager Amir Turgeman in the 1-1 draw.

I only have good things to say about the club and fans