Riffa surged into the top of the standings after defeating Muharraq 2-1 in a 16th-round match of the Nasser bin Hamad Bahrain Premier League at Khalifa Sports City Stadium in Isa Town last night.
In the other match of the night, played at Al Ahli Stadium in Mahooz, a brace from Ali Hassan Saeed helped Al Shabab beat Manama 3-1.
After the first half remained goalless, Riffa struck against Muharraq in the 52nd minute through Ali Haram. Six minutes later, Muharraq found the much-needed equaliser when Thiago Augusto netted from the penalty mark.
The match seemed to be heading for a draw until Riffa were awarded a penalty in the 89th minute and Camille Al Aswad, who took the kick, gave his side a memorable win.
Manama, meanwhile, raised hopes of a victory against Al Shabab when Bruno scored in the 42nd minute. They led the first half 1-0.
Al Shabab came roaring back after the interval with a pumped-up Saeed netting twice, in the 52nd and 60th minutes. With their hopes dented, Manama went all out to snatch an equaliser, but more heartbreak was in store for them when Jassim Mohammed nudged home a goal in the 71st minute.
After last night’s victory, Riffa, with 34 points, share the top spot Muharraq. Hidd slipped to third position with 32 points. Manama, with 20 points, are sixth.