MUSCAT: Ahli Sidab secured a valuable 1-0 victory over Seeb in the opening match of the 2024 Oman Hockey League at the Oman Hockey Stadium in Al Amerat.
The game began cautiously, with no significant chances in the early minutes. However, in the 12th minute, Rashid al Fazari scored the only goal of the match for Ahli Sidab, capitalising on a precise pass inside Seeb's penalty area.
The second quarter saw intense pressure from Seeb as they tried to equalise with continuous attacks, but Ahli Sidab's defence held firm, successfully stopping all attempts. The goalkeeper also shined, saving several dangerous shots.
In the third quarter, the pace of the game intensified as both teams exchanged attacks. Ahli Sidab looked to extend their lead through quick counter-attacks, while Seeb ramped up their efforts to get back into the match. Despite creating several chances, Seeb’s efforts were in vain.
In the final quarter, Seeb’s performance declined due to physical fatigue, allowing Ahli Sidab to control the game's tempo. Although Seeb applied late pressure in the final minutes, Ahli Sidab maintained their lead and secured the three points as the final whistle blew.
AL NASR BLANK DHOFAR
In another match within the second group of the tournament, Al Nasr achieved a deserved 2-0 win over Dhofar at the hockey field of the Sultan Qaboos Cultural and Entertainment Complex in Salalah.
The match started cautiously from both sides, but Al Nasr gradually imposed their dominance, with Akram Ashour scoring the first goal in the 12th minute. In the second quarter, Basim Khater Rajab doubled Al Nasr’s lead with a counter-attack in the 17th minute. Despite Dhofar’s continuous attempts to reduce the deficit, Al Nasr’s well-organised defence prevented any goals.
The participating clubs in the league have been divided into two groups based on governorates. The first group consists of Muscat Governorate clubs, including Ahli Sidab and Seeb, while the second group includes Dhofar Governorate clubs, such as Dhofar, Al Nasr and Salalah. The teams will compete in the final stages in the 'Elite League' format, where the top two from each group will advance, and the qualified teams will play in the final to determine the champion.
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