Uri Misgav

In a forgettable season, the Chechen striker's goal and the reaction of Beitar fans was as symbolic as it gets, but had nothing to do with soccer.

There seems to be something romantic, almost noble in following and identifying with clubs fighting for their lives against relegation.

The team that until now was known mainly for its internal squabbling earned its place in the upper playoffs. As for Be'er Sheva and Hapoel Tel Aviv, the jury is still out.

Coach was fired after consistently horrendous soccer.

Ben Zygier was offered a plea bargain involving prolonged imprisonment. His wife and attorneys advised him to take the deal and avoid a trial, but he hesitated. People who commit severe treason and espionage are not offered plea bargains.

The Yesh Atid chairman's declarations that he never smoked marijuana doesn't add up - Haaretz writer Uri Misgav talks to some who've taken a puff with the fresh politician, and offers Lapid a chance to change his version of the story.

The team's recent poor showing against Maccabi Haifa shows what a colossal failure Yossi Abukasis' tenure as head coach has been.

The very late 88th minute goal by Omer Damari from a nice assist from Tal Ben Haim saved the Reds' season by giving them a 1-0 victory.

Instead of making a party of the renewed Tel Aviv rivalry, everyone concerned, including the sports minister, fanned the flames of hostility.

The total lack of will and initiative demonstrated by the political establishment percolates downward, and is a symptom of a mortal national illness.

In football, players and coaches have the right to challenge a decision. Sunday night's Super Bowl reminded me just how far global soccer is from meeting the challenges it faces in the 21st century.