MUHARRAQ defeated Manama 3-2 while Malkiya drew with East Riffa 3-3 last night in the 12th round of the Bahrain NBB Football First Division League.
At Khalifa Sports City Stadium, Muharraq extended the gap at the top from second place Al Najma to eight points. Muharraq are on 34 points while Manama remain on 13 and in fifth position.
Manama opened the scoring in the fourth minute through Brazilian striker Erick, who struck the target with a powerful shot. However, Muharraq hit back two minutes later through Abdulla Al Haiki.
Manama regained the lead in the 25th minute through Mahmood Abdulrahman.
Muharraq had a great chance to equalise when they were awarded a penalty in the 72nd minute but Muharraq’s Ismael Abdullatif’s attempt went off the bar.
Muharraq eventually equalised in the 81st minute through defender Zeyad Al Derbali’s header.
Penalty
Muharraq were awarded a second penalty in the 85th minute and this time Jamal Rashid was on target to steer Muharraq to a thrilling 3-2 victory.
In the other match at Al Ahli Club stadium, Malkiya and East Riffa drew 3-3. Malkiya are on 24 points and in third place while East Riffa are eighth with 11 points.
Malkiya goals were scored by Isa Al Barri (two goals) and Esra Amer while Faisal Bu Dahoom and Joao Luis (two goals) scored for East Riffa.