Ahly coach Hossam El-Badry has blamed fatigue and bad luck for Wednesday's 1-1 draw against Sharqiya, which are at the bottom of the league table, on match day 37 of the Egyptian Premier League. "The team suffered bad luck during the game and missed many chances, especially for Abdulla El-Said and Gamal. They could have possibly seized victory," the 57-year-old coach told his club's official website after the game. "Fatigue has also played a key factor in the late humble performance, but the road is still long and we are capable of getting back on track and winning the title," he added. Despite the recent weak outcome, title-holders Ahly are close to winning the title for the 39th time as they lead the table with 75 points from 29 games, 12 points clear of Maqassa, who played one game less. El-Badry has also blamed the injuries of key players in the squad, saying the absence of reliable attacking midfielder Walid Soliman was felt the most. The coach has considered Sunday's away CAF Champions League game against Cameroon's Coton Sport as “very important and decisive” in the team's bid for the title. Ahly made a disappointing start to their African Champions League group stage campaign, failing to break down Zambia's Zanaco in a 0-0 home draw last Saturday. While he insists he will continue in his post, El-Badry has been facing criticism lately due to the team's recent poor run, with reports suggesting his possible resignation. (For more sports news and updates, follow Ahram Online Sports on Twitter at @AO_Sports and on Facebook at AhramOnlineSports.)
