Sparky’s Column

Etisalat Pro-League

 

A drought in the desert this weekend! Not exactly a ground breaking piece of journalism when you live in the UAE. The drought I refer to is the lack of goals in the Pro-League, the quietest weekend so far this season. Bani Yas's will be ruing their missed opportunities against Al Wasl as they wasted a hatful of chances. The 0-0 score line though not a bad one on paper was a two points squandered. Al Jazira's result the night before meant there was ground to be gained on the leaders. They were involved in the match of the weekend with Al Wahda, the 2-2 draw was a humdinger of a derby match. Ismaeil Matar looked very lively in this game and was instrumental in a high tempo performance. Bare showed again his importance to Al Jazira with yet another goal. The man's size and power against smaller players means he can dominate a defence. He is a centre back's nightmare difficult to knock of the ball and rarely wastes a chance. The draw was a fair result and if we get more of the same in the Cup Final it should be a great spectacle. Dubai Club continued there run of form and will be disappointed they couldn't hang onto the lead against Al Nasr. That was an opportunity missed to climb the table as Al Ain stumbled to yet another defeat. I still find myself rubbing my eyes blinking a few times when looking at the league table, second bottom surely not but the league table doesn't lie. I am embarrassed to admit I predicted them or Al Jazira for the title pre-season, at least I was half right.

There were rumblings at Al Ahli this week a draw with Al Dhafra raised enough eyebrows to rival Roger Moore in the Bond films. David O'Leary has come under increased pressure this week and his three year plan has started to look a little distant. The reign of the Irishman started with a draw against Kalba and could it finish the same way? The one thing the Al Ahli board could do is look towards Al Jazira. Brazilian coach Braga is now in his 3rd season all of which have been trophy-less. The club should reap the rewards of their patience this season with the league title looking odds on and two more trophies just one game away. The board's patience is looking like it will finally pay off. The two meet this week in what could be a watershed for O'Leary the right result would point towards progress and a potential champions league spot. A loss would just highlight the gulf between them and the league leaders.

If you are off to the Al Jazira game this weekend it might be an idea to take the bus or a taxi. The club will be giving away a Ferrari at half time, that's right someone will drive away in a sleek piece of Italian style and power. If you do win just remember to avoid the speed bumps around the stadium on your way home.