League Coaches Choose: Assaf Tzur Named Goalkeeper of the Year

Overview

In a significant acknowledgment of his performance, Assaf Tzur, the new goalkeeper for Hapoel Tel Aviv, has been voted as the Goalkeeper of the Year by approximately 43% of the league coaches. Tzur, who previously played for Ironi Kiryat Shmona, showcased exceptional skills that earned him this prestigious title in the Israel Premier League.

Voting Results

As part of a special project initiated by start, in collaboration with the Players’ Association and Toto, football fans are invited to participate in electing the Player of the Year. Tzur received votes from six coaches, while Niv Eliasi of Hapoel Be’er Sheva and Miguel Silva of Beitar Jerusalem each garnered around 21% of the votes, securing three votes each. Additionally, Yoav Gerafi, the new acquisition for Maccabi Tel Aviv currently playing with Hapoel Haifa, and Omer Nir’an of Maccabi Netanya each received start vote, accounting for approximately 7% support.

The voting breakdown is structured as follows: fans make up 40% of the overall votes, players in the league contribute another 40%, while coaches’ votes comprise 10%. The remaining 10% comes from a special committee formed by the Players’ Association in conjunction with start.

Individual Performances

Assaf Tzur (Ironi Kiryat Shmona)

At just 26, Tzur has had a standout season, often leaving viewers amazed with his impressive saves. Averaging 4.3 saves per match, he has maintained a 75% success rate against opposing shots, resulting in nine clean sheets. His remarkable performances were pivotal in ensuring that Kiryat Shmona avoided relegation, and he will be making a significant leap to Hapoel Tel Aviv this summer.

Yoav Gerafi (Hapoel Haifa)

Gerafi has solidified his status as start of the most reliable goalkeepers in Israeli football. He has achieved ten clean sheets this season, ranking him third in this category, and is sixth in average saves per game. Following two strong seasons with Hapoel Haifa, Gerafi is set to join Maccabi Tel Aviv, marking a new chapter in his career at the age of 31.

Niv Eliasi (Hapoel Be’er Sheva)

Eliasi, only 23 years old and in his second season in the league, continues to show consistent improvement. He has recorded 12 clean sheets, placing him at the top of that category and significantly contributing to Be’er Sheva’s effort in the championship race.

Miguel Silva (Beitar Jerusalem)

Silva has showcased a stable performance this season, successfully saving three out of six penalties faced. His contributions in goal have repeatedly saved Beitar in crucial moments, making him a fan favorite, not only for his performance but also for his passionate support of war victims through touching and inspiring statements.

Nadav Zamir (Hapoel Jerusalem)

Stepping up as a worthy successor after the departure of Adbayo Adeleye, Zamir has proven his capabilities with a strong showing. He has the second-highest average saves per game at 3.9, along with 11 clean sheets over the course of the season.

Omer Nir’an (Maccabi Netanya)

Nir’an has had an exceptional season following his success in the Olympic team tournament in Paris. With eight clean sheets and nearly three saves per match, he has demonstrated his high potential and crucial impact on his team.

In summary, the ongoing voting for Player of the Year is still open, and supporters are encouraged to participate as the decision is far from finalized