Sparky’s Column

Pro-League Kicks Off with Upsets and Plenty of Goals

The first round of fixtures is complete and reality has set-in for a few of the bigger Clubs. Al Ahli's trip to Madinat Zayed ended in disappointment with a 2-0 defeat by Al Dhafra. Cannavaro arrived in a blaze of publicity but with little time to acclimatise to the conditions and his new team mates. The effects of the World Cup combined with the heat made it an uncomfortable night for the ex-Italy captain.

Al Dhafra are a team to watch - they quietly went about their business last season and finished comfortably mid-table. The team only visits Madinat Zayed on match days as they do their training and preparation in the capital 200km away. It is a difficult place for teams to visit and their home form will be vital if they are to improve on last season.

The champions Al Wahda are reeling after a poor start, first losing the Super Cup followed by a 2-0 defeat to Al Wasl in round one. The team will be looking to recover quickly so they don't fall the way of most recent champions. The title holders often fade dramatically in the season after winning the big prize. In recent seasons Al Ahli, Al Shabab and Al Wasl have all finished 10 or more points adrift of the league leaders whilst trying to defend their title.

One team who has proved the model of consistency for the last three seasons is Al Jazira, however they have yet to take the big prize. The runners-up tag is one they are desperate to shake off and they came out all guns blazing with a 3-0 win over Al Nasr. Could this be the season they finally make the step up to become champions for the first time?

One of the Etisalat Pro-League new teams Dubai Club, were in a thriller with Al Ain but on the wrong end of a 4-3 score line. The other new Club this season, Kalba, were beaten convincingly 3-0 by Sharjah. The lone representatives of the countries third biggest Emirate may be the team to watch this season. "The King" had a great second half to last season and if the momentum remains they should push for a Champions League spot.

This week's fixtures will see all eyes on Al Ahli as Cannavaro makes a home debut in a derby versus Al Wasl. Al Wahda will be desperate to get their season going and they won't have a better chance than at home to Kalba. This could be a make or break match because teams can't afford to lose too many games in a 22-match season.

The most interesting match-up will be Sharjah at home to Al Jazira. It is the sort of tough away fixture Abel Braga's boys will have to win if they are to make the grade. If Sharjah are to state their intentions back at the top of UAE football what better way than a home win against one of the League's glamour clubs.

Mark 'Sparky' Pendergast