ByJames Masters, James Masters
Zevi Saunders revealed his inspirational teamtalk was the key behind Crumpsall’s sensational 5-2 shock victory over reigning champions Manchester Maccabi 3rd.
Crumpsall had lost all six of their previous league games and had managed just four goals in that time before their exploits against Maccabi.
But Rabbi Saunders believes his pleas for his players to ‘fulfil the commandment to be happy at this time of year and let the football make them happy’ was crucial to ending Maccabi's unbeaten start to the season.
“I told them that they had to make sure they were happy and that’s what they did,” said Saunders.
“Luckily, they listened to what I said and went out there and did it.
“It was a fantastic result and we didn’t just beat them, we thumped them.
“We’ve waited so long for a win and it was just wonderful for everyone involved.
“All the players are buzzing and I’m delighted.”
Crumpsall have had their critics following a disastrous start to the season but they turned on the style to leave previously unbeaten Maccabi stunned.
Benjy Silverman and Ben Kayser both scored twice and Zalmy Lachs was also on target as the visitors ran riot at Brooklands.
They could even afford the luxury of a missed penalty from Lachs as Saunders’ side secured victory for the first time in 25 league matches.
He added: “We played some very good football and although we had some luck in a couple of incidents I thought we deserved it.
“Some of the goals were fantastic and now hopefully we can take our form into the game against Leeds Maccabi 3rd next week.
“We’ve got a win under our belts now and hopefully we can go on a run and move up the table.”