AGL: Honours even for Al Ain & Al Wahda

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  • Omar Abdulrahman was not at his best for Al Ain.

    Encouragement for domestic rivals hoping Al Ain’s Arabian Gulf League success had dampened their ambition was in short supply during last night’s goalless draw at Al Wahda.

    The Boss did not drive forward with their usual pace and attacking heartbeat Omar Abdulrahman did not sparkle as brightly as he can. But this was more than enough to control proceedings against AFC Champions League-chasing opponents much improved in recent weeks.

    Coach Zlatko Dalic watched his players throw a blanket over the hosts, who found no weak points to pick at. This professionalism saw the top-flight crown claimed with three games to spare last time out and ensured no player phoned in their performance at Al Nahyan Stadium.

    Miroslav Stoch might have been expected to have enjoyed the early break his second-half substitution provided. Instead, Dalic was tasked as counsellor on the bench as the frustrated winger gesticulated about the decision.

    This was not simple insubordination, rather it was an example of the desire that separates them from the rest.

    Celebrations have seemingly not quelled the squad’s hunger, too much is left still to fight for. Play with such clarity in the weeks to come and the President’s Cup should be added to the trophy cabinet, while the round of 16 in Asia’s premier club competition should hold no fear.

    This match was played at their pace despite the Clarets’ more pressing concern, this draw coupled with wins for Al Jazira and Al Shabab making their bid for a top-three finish and its guaranteed ACL participation a stiffer prospect.

    The first half drifted by, vibrantly coming to life in the final minute.

     A stop-and-go from Omar Abdulrahman caused confusion as he delivered a free-kick. His perfect delivery saw Fares Juma thunder a header against the crossbar, centre-back partner Mohanad Salem seeing his bicycle kick half cleared to forward Jires Kembo Ekoko who shot wide.

    The formula was repeated again after the break, Hussain Fadhel going from villain to hero at the death.

    Al Ain hot shot Asamoah Gyan – again restricted to a substitutes’ role through injury – shot weakly after a poor header played him in, only for the Kuwait centre-back to bicycle-kick away a dangerous cross that made Rashed Essa favourite to find a late winner soon after.

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