Al Ahli face Al Ain

Coach David O’Leary will look for a reversal of fortune as Al Ahli take on Al Ain in a crunch fifth round encounter of the Pro-League at the Tahnoon bin Mohammed Stadium at Al Ain City.

By Hisham Al Gizouli

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Published: Thu 30 Sep 2010, 9:51 AM

Last updated: Mon 6 Apr 2015, 4:45 AM

The Irishman, who has been upset by some bad refereeing that cost them vital points against Al Jazira, will miss the services of Burkina Faso striker Bance following a suspension. Contrary to expectations, the disciplinary committee has been lenient on the African forward as he was handed just a one-match suspension considering that earlier offenders got a more severe punishment. Bance was given marching orders in the Al Jazira match and was expected to remain away from the pitch for at least two official games but the committee decided otherwise.

However, with the return of Faisal Khalil to his near perfect form, O’Leary’s campaign will not be hit hardly.

Hosts Al Ain, on the other hand, are by no means in a better position. Having drawn their last week’s Abdu Derby against arch-rivals Al Wahda, the Purple squad is looking forward to go one better in the home clash.

Interestingly, Al Ahli’s Ahmed Khalil and Al Ain’s Omer Abdul Rahman will head for China after the game to reunite with the under-19 national team. UAE lads will defend their 2008 AFC U-19 Cup title in China from October 7 to 23.

Al Weer Stadium, defending champions Al Wahda will face promoted Dubai in a crucial tie for both sides. Dubai have suffered their fourth straight defeat in the competition on Friday with a last minute goal against Sharjah. Head coach Aimed Al Ramadi and his staff know that any further loss will put many things, including their jobs, at stake.

Meanwhile, Al Wahda will make their second reappearance under new manager Titi and hope for a good showing to avoid slipping to the bottom of the table.

The fifth round of the UAE premier competition resumes on Friday with two tough clashes featuring Sharjah against Al Nasr and Al Jazira versus Bani Yas.


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