Doha: Bader Al Ghamdi netted an equaliser 30 seconds from the final hooter to give Qatar’s Al Gharafa a deserving point in a thrilling 25-25 draw against Al Qurain Sporting Club from Kuwait in the Group A match of the 17th Asian Club League Championship
Yesterday at the Ali Bin Hamad Al-Attiyah Arena in Al Sadd both teams having won their opening games were eager to stay afloat in the race.
The tension was almost visible from the starting throw-off and should quickly evolve into one of the most physical matches of this tournament so far.
In defence both teams fought for every millimetre using all physical power and tricks they had. Score wise the game was levelled in first half at 11-11 draw.
The tough character was visible with the high amount of yellow cards and 2-minute-penalties and also the tournament’s first red card.The tight match continued over second half, the Kuwaiti finding ways over their excellent right wing play with Ali Saleh scoring six important goals. The Qatari attacked mainly rolled over the middle with Saied Sobhi’s (6) one-on-ones and Elfakharany’s cool finishes from the line for five goals. In the end a draw was the a fitting result for the closely fought encounter. With yesterday’s draw both teams remain in the hunt for a semi-final berth.
In the other matches, a solid first half performance by Al Kuwait Club saw them win 29-22 over Oman’s Ahli Sadab and secure two more valuable points.
Elsewhere, Samenalhojaj of Iran finally managed to show off their full potential defeating Al Salt Club of Jordan 29-17, while Al Khalij Club of Saudi Arabia defeated Iranian club Manyazium Ferdows Club 27-21.
In Group A, Lekhwiya is leading with four points after two games followed by Al Gharafa and Al Qurain Sporting Club of Kuwait with three points from two followed by Samenalhojaj with two points in three games. All four teams still have a chance to secure a semi-final spot.
In the other group, El Jaish is leading, along with Al Kuwait Club with four points after two games. Manyazium Ferdows Club and Al Khalij Club trail with two points after playing three games.
The Peninsula
