Al Ahli’s Mashel Abdulla (foreground) takes the ball past Al Markhiya’s Salih Mohamed during their QSL match at Al Arabi Stadium yesterday. Pic: Kammutty VP/The Peninsula
Al Sailiya consolidated their fourth spot at the QNB Stars League (QSL) after overcoming a spirited Al Gharafa side 3-2 in a thrilling battle at Al Gharafa Stadium yesterday.
A goal in the first minute of stoppage time by substitute Mohmad Mdether Rajeb separated the two teams in the nail-biting contest, which saw five goals being scored in the last 30 minutes.
There were no goals in the first half but the foundation of the thrilling action was laid in the opening session which saw quick pace from both teams as they exchanged plenty of attacks.
A foul by Al Gharafa’s goal-keeper Qasem Abdulhamed against Valentin Marius inside the penalty area saw the referee awarding a spot kick in the 61st minute.
Temurkhuja Abdukholikov made no mistake by beating Abdulhamed with an accurate kick on his left for the first goal.
The opening goal by Al Sailiya accelerated pace of the game further, prompting Al Gharafa to speed up efforts to find the leveler.
Cheetahs did not have to wait for long as just five minutes later Othman Alawi Al Yahri found the target in a 66th minute move.
A clinical finish from just inside the circle in 72nd minute by Nadir Belhadj regained the lead for Al Sailiya which was again leveled by Al Gharafa through Ahmed Alaa in 85th minute.
Rajeb scored the all-important goal when his attempt to right of the post landed in the cage after taking Abdulhamed’s touch, sealing a hard-fought 3-2 victory.
The victory took Al Sailiya’s tally to 18 points with Al Duhail (19 points), Al Rayyan (18) and Al Sadd (18) are the only sides ahead of them.
At Al Arabi Stadium, a goal in the 68th minute by seasoned Mashel Abdulla was enough for Al Ahli to impose an impressive a 1-0 victory over Al Markhiya.
In last match of the opening day of Round 8 yesterday, Al Khor defeated Qatar SC 2-1 to claim maximum points at Qatar SC Stadium.
Big teams will be in action today with points leaders Al Duhail taking on Al Kharaitiyat in their own backyard.
Al Sadd will also be looking to extend their winning run when they will meet Umm Salal at their home ground.
The other match will be played between Al Rayyan and Al Arabi at Al Arabi Stadium.
