BySimon Griver, Simon Griver
Eran Zahavi has set a new Israeli top-flight scoring record, beating the 30 goals scored by Beitar Tel Aviv legend Nisim Elmaliah in the 1954-55 season.
The Maccabi Tel Aviv captain registered a brace in 3-2 win over Beitar Jerusalem to bring his season's tally to 31. Elmaliah scored his 30 goals in just 26 games while Zahavi has played 30 games so far this season. He scored 29 last season.
Zahavi's dramatic 90th-minute winner had more than historical significance. It also means Maccabi leapfrog Hapoel Beer Sheva to the top of the table as they seek a fourth consecutive league title.
Zahavi said: "I've been chasing this record for three years and I'm grateful to my family and fellow players for their support.
“Elmaliah set the bar high and now I'll be chasing my own record. I've worked hard for this but it won't be worth anything if we don't win the league."