Hapoel Ihud Bnei Gat and Beitar Haifa Yakov played out an entertaining 2-2 draw in the Israel C League on Sunday. The visitors twice came from behind to earn a point, with Dor Halevi scoring the final equaliser eight minutes from time after a fiercely contested second half.

Match Overview

Hapoel Ihud Bnei Gat made the brighter start and were rewarded in the 18th minute when Aviram Cohen found space at the near post and turned in a low cross. The hosts continued to look the more threatening side for much of the first half, but Beitar Haifa Yakov found a response four minutes before the break. Yaniv Peretz capitalised on a loose ball in the box and levelled the score with a sharp finish.

The second half was end-to-end. Hapoel regained the lead in the 55th minute through Shai Malka, who struck from the edge of the area after a short corner routine. Beitar pushed more players forward in the closing stages and were rewarded in the 82nd minute when Halevi headed home from a deep free-kick. Both sides had chances to win it late on, but neither goalkeeper was beaten again.

Key Moments

• 18th minute: Aviram Cohen gives Hapoel Ihud Bnei Gat the lead.
• 41st minute: Yaniv Peretz equalises for Beitar Haifa Yakov.
• 55th minute: Shai Malka restores the home side’s advantage.
• 82nd minute: Dor Halevi heads in a late equaliser.
• 90+1 minutes: Hapoel force a corner, but the resulting header goes wide.

Tactical Story

Hapoel Ihud Bnei Gat looked to control possession through their central midfield and were effective at switching play towards the flanks. Their movement in the final third caused Beitar problems, particularly during the first hour. Beitar Haifa Yakov, however, showed impressive resilience. Their decision to introduce fresh legs in wide areas midway through the second half added pace and helped them stretch the game, eventually leading to the set-piece that produced the equaliser.

Standout Players

Cohen was a constant threat for the hosts and took his goal well, while Malka’s energy in midfield helped Hapoel maintain pressure. For Beitar, Peretz was influential in linking play and scoring the first equaliser. Halevi’s late header capped a strong second-half cameo and underlined his importance in aerial situations.

Season Impact

The draw keeps both teams in the middle pack of the Israel C League table, but each will take something from the performance. Hapoel will rue not holding onto their lead twice, while Beitar can point to their character and fighting spirit. With the league campaign still developing, the point could prove important for momentum in the weeks ahead.