Are Rayyan credible title challengers?

Al Rayyan won their sixth game in a row this season and are now four points clear at the top of the QSL table. The Lions had their fair share of luck in defeating bitter rivals Al Arabi 5-2 in a feisty derby match. Whilst Rayyan fans have the bragging rights for now over their Arabi supporting friends, one key question remains. Can the Lions keep up this run and turn into credible title challengers for the falcon shield?

Many would argue that Rayyan have had an easy start to their return to the QSL, with the Arabi tie their first real test. Jorge Fossati’s men held their nerve at times and ended up as comfortable winners. However their tie in round 7 against Lekhwiya will be a true measure of this sides title credentials.  
 
Fans out in force for the derby

The derby between Al Rayyan and Al Arabi seen over 9,000 passionate Rayyan and Arabi fans packed into the Grand Hamad Stadium on Saturday evening.  The fans got their value for money with 7 goals, and plenty of talking points from a game that showed the best of the QSL.

Both teams have a passionate fan base and should be congratulated on harnessing fan power for the Derby. Coordinated fan tilfo’s, light shows and constant chanting gave the game an electric atmosphere which should be celebrated.

Indeed both coaches had favorable words for the fans who made this match so special. Winning coach Jorge Fossati noted  “The fans have been amazing in this match, they showed a passion for both sides. Now that we have won I hope more fans can see what we are achieving here at Rayyan.”

The eyes of the GCC was firmly focused on the derby tie, now it is up to the QSL clubs to further harness fan support to gather even larger audiences to QSL matches.



Meisameer grab first win!

Meisameer grabbed their first three points and first goals of the season in a 2-1 victory over Al Kharitiyat. The Flames have been unlucky in their last few matches, and should have grabbed points earlier in the season. Yet Rodion Gacanin will be delighted that his side’s effort and perseverance has been rewarded with three points. Brazilian stiker Everlito Silva has been wasteful in front of goal this season but made no mistake in hitting the target twice to give his sides the points.

Meisameer are now just out of the relegation zone for now, and have a crucial basement battle against winless Qatar Sports Club in round 7. If they manage to get a shock win, expect a real upturn in fortunes for The Flames.

 

هدف الجيش الثاني #الجيش_لخويا ٢-٠ #دوري_نجوم_قطر pic.twitter.com/CL42GqusXN

— Qatar Stars League (@QSL) October 22, 2015

 
Hamdullah vital for Jaish title push.

El Jaish where victorious against rivals Lekhwiya in the other derby tie of round 6 with a comprehensive 2-0 win.  The solders have the hard work of Moroccan striker Abderrazak Hamdallah to thank for these three points.

The former Guangzhou R&F striker has now scored 8 goals in 6 starts and leads the way in the QSL goal scoring charts.Sabri Lamouchi’s side are still undefeated in the league and if Hamdullah can keep his form, he could push his side into title contention.   Jaish will be expecting to register their fourth win in a row when they face Al Wakrah in round 7 of the QSL.
 
Lekhwiya & Sadd lack cutting edge?

Lekhwiya and Sadd endured a difficult week in the QSL in round 6. The traditional big two sides stumbled in matches they would of expected to win. Al Sadd could only manage an uninspiring 0-0 draw against 10 man Al Khor. Despite registering 20 shots on goal, Sadd was unable to break deadlock on the night.

Lekhwiya also stumbled to a 2-0 defeat against rivals El Jaish. Djamel Belmadi’s side lacked the cutting edge in the final third, and failed to create many chances in the match. Both teams really lacked a plan B striking option from the bench which could of change the ties in their favour. What would both sides do to have a striker of the ilk Abderrazak Hamdallah or Sebastian Soria in their respective squads? Both sides will be hoping for better fortunes in front of goal in round 7 of the QSL.