ALRASS, 25 December 2005 — Leaders Al-Shabab dropped to second place in the Saudi Soccer League after a strange goalless draw against Al-Hazem. Hazem, taking advantage of coach Ahmed Al-Ajlani’s pressing tactics and zone defense, controlled the game and left no corner empty to score against. Shabab exhausted their effort in scoring a goal, but due to stiff defense and organized soccer skills shown by Hazem, made it impossible for them. The result brought Shabab back to second position.
Hilal and Ittihad Win
MADINAH, 25 December 2005 — Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad won their away matches against Al-Abha and Al-Ansar in round 12 of the Saudi Soccer League.
Hilal scored a great victory as they beat Abha 5-0. Hilal dominated the field throughout the game and handed their coach Alexander a debut victory in the 90-minute match. In another match, the road-weary Ittihad outplayed Ansar 4-0 in a dilly-dallying match, appearing tired. Ittihad arrived from Japan five days ago after playing at the FIFA Club World Championship.
Ittihad’s New Striker
JEDDAH, 25 December 2005 — Al-Ittihad football club acquired striker Essa Al-Muhaiani from Al-Wehda club in a two-player transfer deal. Ittihad will send Marzok Al-Otaibi to Wehda as a part of deal once it is finalized.
The transfer will cost Ittihad SR5 million. Muhaiani will replace Hamza Idris as he will retire at the end of this season.
