Traditionally in the Qatar Stars League, promoted sides tend to endure a miserable relegation battle which ultimately ends up with them being sent straight back to the Qatar Gas League.
However in round five, both new boys registered big wins in what could prove to be vital in the race to beat the drop.
Al Shahania moved up to fifth place in the standings with a commanding 2-1 victory over Al Sailiya. The Oryx’s registered their second win of the new season thanks to goals from Mohamed Tiaïba and Abdullah Al-Yazidi.
As for Muaither, they registered their first victory of the season by edging out fellow strugglers Al Wakrah. Deadline-day- signing Alain Dioko proved to be the difference maker for the Stallions, who have moved away from the foot of the table.
Luca shown the door at Al Ahli
The second managerial casualty of the QSL season saw Al Ahli Doha coach Luka Bonacic relieved of his duties following the Brigadiers 3-1 loss to Al Khor on Thursday evening.
Al Ahli Doha had enjoyed a relatively-strong start to the QSL season, including a derby day win over Al Arabi and had been sitting in fourth place going into round five.
But the comprehensive defeat to Al Khor proved to be too much for the Ahli management, promptly giving the Croatian his marching orders. Now the Ahli hierarchy will have to move quickly to find a worthy replacement, especially when Ahli will take on champions Al Rayyan on Wednesday.
Results
Al Sailiya 1-2 Al Shahania
Al Ahli Doha 1-3 Al Khor
El Jaish 4-2 Umm Salal
Lekhwiya 4-1 Al Arabi
Al Gharafa 3-3 Al Sadd
Muaither 1-0 Al Wakrah
Al Kharaitiyat 1-3 Al Rayyan
