Powerhouses Al Nasr and Al Ahli needed shootout to determine winner as The Red Knights earn 3rd straight championship
Al Nasr made it to the finals last year and came up just short, losing 4-2. The opponent was the same this year, Al Ahli. Same result. The 3(1)-3(0) win for the now three-time defending champion was even more difficult this season against the team that knows them best. Al Nasr might have been holding the trophy today had a few things gone their way but a second place finish is still something very hard to accomplish in such a competitive league.
The opening frame was a surprise to most as no goals were scored but what was not surprising was that the two excellent goal keepers rose to the occasion and prevented the scoring. Mossa of Al Ahli and Jamal of Al Nasr were determined to keep things level and played spectacular as they parleyed every shot and attempt on net.
A very engaging frame followed the defensive first period. The second period had four goals, two from each side, as well as three yellow cards. Portuguese star, Madjer, opened things up with two goals in the middle of the frame to put his side, Al Ahli, up 2-0. Al Nasr made sure that they did not fall any further behind, but their offense did not come alive until the final minutes when they scored twice, one on a penalty shot, to even the score at 2 just before the final break.
The first period was stocked full of defensive plays. The second period was all offense. So what could be expected in a tied championship match of this caliber in the final frame? A perfect blend of fluid offense and solid defense. Both teams scored once in the final frame, highlighting their offensive and defensive prowess, but no one posted a goal in the extra frame, sending the match to penalties. In the shootout, Al Ahli saved the first shot and then Belchior swiftly struck the ball to secure the title.
Though the champions and runners-up have been decided, there is still much to play for in the UAE National league. Next week there will be one match:
Saturday, 5th of April
– Al Nasr vs Al Wasl: 16:00
If Al Wasl wins they will earn 3rd place in the league. If they are unable to secure victory, Al Hamreya will take home 3rd place honours.
