Starting with a derby: The two representatives of the working settlement in the Premier League – Hapoel Gilboa/Galil and Hapoel Galil Aliyon – will open the 2022-2023 season on Saturday night with a direct meeting at Gan Ner.
Gilboa/Galil went through a mini-revolution in the squad this year, but this time too we see a determined and fighting group that already proved in the pre-season that they will look at any opponent with the whites of their eyes. Rami Hadar went for a young and energetic cadre, who will try to implement his favorite elements: walking with power to rebound the attack, aggressive defense and fast play. Amit Ziss, who missed part of the preparation due to an injury, was appointed captain and will try to continue the line of progress under Hadar in the north as well.
On the other hand, Galil Alyon, who is returning to the European Cup this season, recorded a wonderful achievement in the summer when they managed to keep Nimrod Levy for another season, alongside Bryce Washington who extended his contract at the end of last season. Barak Peleg’s team again presents an intriguing and athletic back line, which will receive another upgrade later with the recovery of Itai Moskovitz from injury. This year, the team presents two candidates for the title of discovery of the season: graduates of the junior national teams Yahal Melamed and Harel Rinsky.
Yonatan Alon, the professional manager of the Upper Galilee, said: “We really believe in this team. There is a young and talented team here and we are sure that we will improve with time.” About Lotan Amsalem who was injured, he said: “We are still finding out the severity of the injury. We will of course stand by him throughout his recovery.”