Barda, Elyaniv

Barda, a talented youngster who can play either center forward or on the left wing of attack, has played for the Israeli under-21 team 18 times. The star of the Israeli Olympic team, Barda was signed by Maccabi Haifa in an attempt to fill the chasm left by Igabini Ya'akubu, who is now playing at Portsmouth.

Birth and Death Dates:
b. Dec. 15, 1981

Career Highlights:
As a youngster coming through the ranks, Barda was seen by the Hapoel Ber-Sheva organization as the replacement for Haifa-bound Yossi Benayoun. Elyaniv spent a couple of years on the bench as his team remained mired in the Second Division. His first campaign as a starter -- in 2000-01 -- was a revelation. He scored 12 goals and caught the attention of scouts nationwide as he led the team to promotion.

In 2001-02, Barda went through his first season in the Israeli Premier League. He scored four goals and made five assists in 23 starts while the team enjoyed a fairly successful year.

After opening the 2002-03 season with Hapoel, Elyaniv was signed by Maccabi Haifa as they sought to rebuild their squad following the departures of Ya'akubu and Benayoun. He is marked along with Yaniv Katan as the attacking future of the organization thanks to his skill and versatility. Elyaniv started seven games for Maccabi while scoring three league goals as Haifa lost the championship on the last day of the season.

In the 2003-04 campaign, Barda secured the starting berth on Maccabi's left flank. He started 21 league games and made seven appearances as a substitute while scoring 5 goals. Haifa won the title rather easily and the winger received much praise for his form. Elyaniv seemed destined to join Maccabi Tel Aviv for the 2004-05 season, but negotiations fell through. Barda will remain in a green Haifa uniform.

Origin:
Ber-Sheva, Israel

Career Dates:
Player: 1998 - present

Position:
Forward

Physical description:
5'8", 158 pounds

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