Oussama Darragi had a dream start for Umm Salal as he helped his team to a 3-1 victory away to Al Kharaitiyat at the Al Khor Stadium yesterday.
Darragi, the first signing in the QNB Stars League in the current winter transfer window, found the net in the 20th and 24th minutes before Mohamed Abu Bakr grabbed the third in the 42nd. Abdulaziz al-Ansari replied for Al Kharaitiyat in the 84th.
Having threatened with a long-range strike that was well saved in the fourth minute, it did not take Darragi long to open his account for The Orange Fortress. After collecting the ball 30 yards out, he found strength to counter the pressure of a number of opposition players before drilling the ball into the far-right corner from distance.
Just a few minutes later, Mahmoud al-Mawas played a one-two inside the area with Mohamed Abu Bakr before sending a pass across the six-yard line for Darragi to tap home.
Al Kharaitiyat tried to respond, but Umm Salal pounced on the counter just prior to half-time. Al-Mawas found Abu Bakr with a through ball and he confidently powered it past the goalkeeper when in on goal.
The Thunders did try to apply pressure in the second half, with Rashid Tiberkanine hitting the post before Abdulaziz gave them a late consolation.
All in all, Umm Salal’s strategy allowed them to control the second half and see out the win. They will be delighted with the victory, which can strengthen their challenge for the top four.



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