AHMED Juma scored three minutes from regular time to lift Muharraq to a hard-earned 1-0 victory over bitter rivals Al Ahli last night in the Nasser bin Hamad Bahrain Premier League.
After Ahli were reduced to 10 men midway through the second half, Muharraq took full advantage and their efforts were rewarded in the 87th minute through Juma.
The Bahraini defender pounced on a loose ball right in front of goal following a corner kick, and he fired in amongst a crowded box into the bottom-left corner of the net.
Both teams were pushing hard to score in the contest, but neither could break the deadlock before Juma’s winner.
Standings
The result earned Muharraq their third win in five games as they improved to 10 points on the league standings for third place after six weeks. Muharraq, however, have a game in hand.
Ahli, meanwhile, suffered their third loss in six games and they stayed on seven points.
In yesterday’s other game, previously bottom-ranked Al Hala put in a five-star performance against Al Shabab as they claimed a resounding 5-0 victory.
The victors had a dominant second half, in which they scored four of their goals.
On target for Hala were Ahmed Rashid, Ebrahim Al Meshkhas, Gabriel Abdulrahim, Mahmood Al Haiki and Ibrahima.
It was their first and only win so far in this year’s league after six games. They previously had two other draws to go with three losses.
Shabab, on the other hand, were dealt their fourth defeat in six outings and they are now in solo last place on the standings.
League action continues on Saturday with five games on the cards marking the seventh week of play.
Manama and Ahli face off while Hala and Hidd lock horns. Busaiteen take on Al Shabab, Riffa and East Riffa battle while Muharraq play Al Najma.