Bani Yas boss Luis Garcia is convinced the only way is up after claiming his first Arabian Gulf League victory.
An Ahmed Ali brace in the second half saw the Sky Blues claim a 2-0 triumph against Al Shabab on Friday night. This relieved the pressure on the Spaniard, who had previously overseen five winless top-flight fixtures
“It was an excellent win,” the 41-year-old said. “We played very well for the first 15 minutes, but we could not keep up our rhythm.
“In the second half, we succeeded in attack.
“The focus and psychological part were very important. We were focusing in a good way.
“I am happy for the fans, happy for the club and happy for the management. We needed this.
“In football, you need to forget about the past and focus on the future. Of course, this will help us to continue in a very good way.
“We played very well and deserved to win.”
Bani Yas welcomed foreign signing Denis Stracqualursi into the starting line-up for his debut. Garcia had been vocal in his desire for a tall, powerful striker for weeks before the Argentine was landed on special dispensation after the close of the transfer window.
“Denis was excellent,” the ex-Levante and Getafe boss said. “He is not ready at 100 per cent.
“We will work to make him much better.”
Shabab had begun the season in confident mood. Boss Caio Junior attributed their second loss to the decision by the linesman to allow Ali’s opener despite the forward appearing to be offside.
He said: “Al Shabab played well. We had good chances to score.
“The problem for me was the first Bani Yas goal. It was a clear offside – clear by one metre.
“This was very bad for us as the game was balanced. This situation changed the game.
“I could not believe it.”
