Al Jazira hold Shabab Al Ahli; Sharjah beat Emirates in AGL

Al Jazira and Shabab Al Ahli Dubai's intriguing encounter of the Arabian Gulf League ended in goalless draw at the Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium on Friday night.

It was a frustrating match for players and coaches. Even a late introduction of striker Ali Mabkhout, returning from injury, couldn't salvage pride for Al Jazira. Right from the start, Shabab Al Ahli Dubai maintained a tight control on the game. The 'Red Knights' threatened with Moussa Sow and Makhete Diop operating together with Moon Chang-jin and Henrique Luvannor for company. It was decent defending by Al Jazira that denied space for Sow and Diop to score.

On the other hand, Al Jazira started with Lassana Diarra. Al Jazira made good with fewer chances on offer through Mbark Boussoufa, Mohamed Fawzi and Romarinho. However, as in previous matches, Al Jazira were found wanting in attack. Striker Ahmed Al Hashmi failed to latch onto crosses from Fawzi and Romarinho, the latter on one occasion resorted to a long-range effort after looking for options.

However, after the break, Al Jazira were a different team. Coach Henk ten Cate's pep talk seemed to have inspired the players. And in five minutes, there were two attempts on goal through Romarinho. There were more close efforts being missed at either end. With 20 minutes to go, Mabkhout was introduced and the striker immediately asked question with a long-ranger.

At the other end, Sow and Diop had chances but failed to score. It was a nervous end to the match which remained goalless. Al Jazira moved a place to sixth (nine points) but Shabab Al Ahli remained fourth (12 points) on the table.   

In an early match, after suffering three loses and drawn matches, Sharjah finally tasted success by prevailing over Emirates 1-0 at the Khalid Bin Mohammed Stadium.

After a barren first half, Brazilian striker Welliton scored the only goal of the match in 58th minute by converting from a neat header from Omar Jumaa to clinch the first victory of the season.

Sharjah are ninth with six points and Emirates 11th on four points.

Source: Khaleej Times