Hapoel Jerusalem this evening (Monday) succeeded in its first fire test of the season, showing character when it came back from a double-digit deficit and won at Hafis Arena 67:69 over Drushapka in the opening round of the season of the Champions League.
The coach of Hapoel Jerusalem, Alexander Dzikich, summed up the game: "Congratulations to our opponent who played very hard and was not moved by the display of our crowd."
We know we can play better, but this is the start of the season and we are happy for the victory.'
Dramatic game in the arena, photo: Bernie Adobe
"We knew in advance what the problems could appear and they appeared so at least we know what we have to change.
We kept fighting today even though we were behind.
There are many things that I am not happy with, I would like us to be smarter, to use offenses in a smarter way.
Let's play faster.
This is my 31st year as a coach, presenting amazing basketball is not realistic.
I am happy for the victory.'
Drushapka's coach, Selgok Aamek: "Congratulations to Hapoel Jerusalem, we knew it was going to be a tough game."
The game was close but we recorded 17 losses and that decided the game against us.
We are a new group and we will have to find a way to connect and prevent things like this in the future.
Hapoel Jerusalem celebrates in the arena, photo: Barney Ardov
"It takes time to put together a new team, I believe we will play better in the future. Wins or losses in specific games do not define us, our attitude will define us."
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