Al Ahli overcame a slump in the third set to ward off Qatar SC’s challenge 25-18, 25-16, 23-25, 25-23 in the Qatar Men’s League at Al Arabi Sports Club last week.
After easily winning the first two sets, Ahli took the foot off the pedal in the third set. Qatar SC put up a fight in the fourth set as well, but Ahli held their nerve to emerge as victorious.
It was Ahli’s fourth win from five outings.
Brazilian professional Geraldo Goiano, with his powerful smashes, was once again the architect of Mariusz Sordyl-coached side. He was well supported by local player Mahmoud Essam.
“Barring the defeat to Police, which has been our only setback in the league, we’ve been gelling well as a team. I hope we can maintain the momentum,” said Sordyl to Doha Stadium Plus.
Ahli’s best performance in the league is the runners-up finish in 2013, a year in which they also reached the Emir’s Cup final.
This year, they started well, reaching the semifinal of the Association Cup and inflicting the first defeat of the season on favourites Arabi recently.
“If we can continue the way we’re playing now, there’s every reason we can be counted as title contenders. The win againt Arabi has boosted our morale,” said Goiano.
Meanwhile, champions Al Rayyan maintained their clean sheet in the league with a 25-13, 32-30, 25-23 win against Al Khor.