QNB Stars League- Round 2 Talking Points
Round two of the QNB Stars League served up plenty of goals and incident and in our regular column talking points, QSL online picks over the moments that mattered over the weekend.
Big win for the Kings
Qatar SC picked up their first points of the season with a hard fought 1-0 win over fellow promoted side Al Markhiya on Friday evening. Gabriel Calderon has Nigerian attacker Michael Babatunde for the win, after a drilled shot found its way into the back of the net on the 23rd minute.
The Kings dominated early proceedings, and deservedly took the lead. More encouraging for coach Calderon will be how is back line was able to withstand late Markhiya pressure and hold on for a vital three points. Qatar SC will be looking to maintain winning ways when they take on Al Arabi in round three.
Title Challengers maintain 100% record
At the top of the QNB Stars League standings and the title favourites registered wins to maintain their perfect starts to the league campaign. First up Al Rayyanbrushed aside Al Kharaitiyat with a impressive 3-1 victory. Rayyan dominated throughout, and eased to the victory thanks in part to a Sebastain Soria brace.
Whilst Al Sadd fought a late Al Sailiya fightback to run out 3-2 winners on Friday evening. Goals from Xavi, Jugurtha Hamroun, and a first Wolves goal for midfielder Boualem Khoukhi ensured a win for Jesauldo Ferriera’s side.
Finally Al Duhail dominated in their 2-0 win over Al Arabi in the QNB Stars League match of the week on Saturday evening. Young striker Almoez Ali headed his side into the lead, whilst Tunisian attacker Yusef Msakni sealed the victory late in the second half. With all sides winning, it certainly promises to be a entertaining battle for the QNB Stars League title come the end of the season. Heading into round three Al Rayyan take on Al Duhail in the standout encounter, one team may loose their perfect start to the season.
Umm Salal quietly going about their business
Umm Salal opened up the second round of QNB Stars League action with a 0-0 draw against Al Gharafa. Whilst the result was certainly not the most interesting of the weekend, it certainly underlined the Orange Fortress and their top four ambitions.
Mahmoud Jaber’s boys looked assured at the back and held on for the point, without particularly playing well. This could be an import habit to get into, if as expected Umm Salal make a break for a top four finish. Mahmoud Jaber’s side will be looking to extend their undefeated streak to three games when they take on Al Ahli in round three.
