Hapoel Holon came into the new season as the reigning champion and as such the pressure and expectations from the team are high.
Last night (Friday) the Purples registered an impressive 'V' in the first baptism of fire for the season, when they beat Hapoel Jerusalem 76:80 at the Toto Hall, in a game that was close and intriguing throughout, when a big three by Niv Meshav sealed the fate of the game.
"We came away with a victory in the opening game of the season against a good and trained opponent. It is not easy to have such an opponent in the first game, certainly not for the players for whom it was their first game in front of our amazing crowd," noted Hapoel Holon coach Guy Godes at the end.
The club noted the defensive improvement presented by the players in the second quarter, and the adjustments made in the second half, as a major factor in the victory in a game that was close, during which none of the teams managed to produce a run of more than seven points in a row without an answer.
"It took us a while to get into the rhythm, but in the second half we knew how to make adjustments and come out with the upper hand. What's important at the beginning of the season is to collect victories and I'm glad we did it against a great team. Goodes added.
Eric Green, who made a wonderful debut in Israel and contributed 18 points along with 3 rebounds and 3 assists, received compliments.
"He is a very smart player with wonderful qualities, it's not every day that such a player lands in Israel. His combination with Joe can be fantastic and we see it now on the field," the club testified.
First victory over Jerusalem.
Guy Goodes in action, photo: Alan Shiver
The team expressed satisfaction with the ability of center Marvin Jones, who displayed high abilities and finished the game with an impressive double-double of 21 points and 10 rebounds.
"He adds toughness and energy to us, along with a wide variety of other tools including shooting. He has great shooting from the outside even if he doesn't always show it. He is a very high level athlete, very competitive and always wants to improve and win," added Goodes.
Jones, who was chosen as the outstanding player of the game, shared his feelings at the end: "I felt great. I work every day to be ready for moments like this and games like this. Thanks to my effort and level of preparation, I play with confidence and peace of mind because I know I'm ready for any scenario."
Eric Green.
Opening on foot to Holon, photo: Alan Shiver
After passing the first test in the Israeli league, Guy Goodes' apprentices will begin preparations for the team's next game, in three days against the Belgian Ostend, as part of the second game in the FIBA group stage.
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