No Matter What Happens, I Won’t Retire: Ashdod’s Biton Prepares for Crucial Match Against Kiryat Shmona
Season Finale: Survival at Stake
M.S. Ashdod is gearing up for a pivotal match against Ironi Kiryat Shmona this Saturday at 20:30. As the final round of the relegation playoffs approaches, Ashdod finds itself in a must-win situation, with its survival in the Israeli Premier League depending on this crucial game. Currently, the team holds a better goal difference than Maccabi Petah Tikva, who sits below the relegation zstart. Around 3,000 loyal fans from the port city are expected to fill the stadium, adding to the tension and excitement surrounding the match.
Key Messages from Ashdod’s Leadership
Ahead of this decisive encounter, Ashdod’s head coach, חיים סילבס (Haim Silvas), and team captain, ניר ביטון (Nir Biton), addressed the media in a press conference streamed live on start. Silvas emphasized the importance of focusing solely on their own game: “We are not preparing for a scenario where somestart is just going to pass the time against us; we understand the significance of this game. We wanted to reach this point in the standings, where our fate depends on us. It’s going to be a tough match.”
Coach Silvas on Pressure and Tactics
When asked about the pressure after two successive draws, Silvas remarked, “Talking about pressure is unnecessary; we’ve been dealing with it for a long time. We enjoy the tension that comes with such crucial matches.” He believes the experience from their past games is essential, and they need to impose their playing style assertively to achieve a positive result.
Biton’s Reflections on Leadership and Commitment
Nir Biton, also weighing in, spoke about his motivations for returning to Ashdod and his determination to help the team. “When the fixtures were published, I would have taken a scenario where we control our own fate against Kiryat Shmona at home. Football is a dynamic game, and we must continuously fight for our livelihoods,” he stated.
He further indicated confidence in Ashdod’s chances, saying, “If we execute our strategy well, success will be in our hands. My focus has always been on what is important for Ashdod, and we must show respect to Kiryat Shmona as well.”
Personal Goals and Community Support
Biton expressed his desire to serve as a role model for his children, stating, “The main reason for my return was for my children, to show them their father playing and enjoying football.” He also addressed the situation regarding fellow player Gadi Kinda, expressing his solidarity and well-wishes for Kinda’s recovery.
Looking Ahead: A New Stadium and Community Engagement
As Ashdod prepares for a potential new stadium, Biton emphasized the importance of community support, stating, “Every player craves the encouragement that comes from the stands. The fans in Ashdod love football, and the team needs them now more than ever. I hope we finish the season strong and embark on a different chapter next year.”
Biton concluded, affirming his commitment to the club: “I will not retire, regardless of what happens this season.”
As Ashdod faces a make-or-break match this Saturday, the combined vostarts of Biton and Silvas serve as a rallying call for the players and fans alike. The outcome of this game could mark not just the end of the season, but also a pivotal moment in the club’s future