CAIRO: Sherif Ashraf s early free-kick gave Zamalek a 1-0 Egyptian Premier League victory over Ittihad in Henri Michel s debut on Thursday. The French tactician took over at the club following the sacking of Swiss Michel Decastel and helped them secure their second league victory in four games. Zamalek became level on seven points with joint leaders Petrojet and Ahly, who can restore their three-point cushion over the White Knights if they beat Gouna and Gaish respectively on Friday. Struggling Ittihad, who also played their first game under Brazilian boss Carlos Cabral, are at the bottom of the 16-team table with just one point. The home fans, who packed into Military Academy Stadium, finally cheered for Zamalek after booing them in the 2-1 defeat to Petrojet and the 2-2 draw against Arab Contractors. The 11-time Egyptian champions were not that good though but at least they managed to claim all three points. Ashraf, who made his first start this season, needed eight minutes to open the scoring when his delightful free-kick from the edge of the area sailed over the wall and into the top corner. Ittihad had the better possession for the rest of the first half but failed to create any clear-cut opportunities. Zamalek, who were far from convincing, lacked creativity as playmaker Remi Adiko hardly fed strike duo Mido and Ashraf. Shikabala s absence due to injury notably affected the rhythm of Zamalek s attack. Mido persistently tried to make use of long balls but did not succeed and was even booked for a challenge on Ittihad keeper Al-Hani Soliman. The hosts had a half-chance just before the break when a low shot by sweeper Hani Saied went just wide of the post. Mido, who is yet to impress after joining from Middlesbrough on a season-long loan, was replaced with Amr Zaki on the hour mark. Ghanaian midfielder Ibrahim Ayew was introduced instead of Ashraf to make his debut. The son of Ghana legend Abedi Pele, who played as a striker, was the architect of several attacking attempts and could have doubled Zamalek s advantage himself. His goal-bound shot was cleared by an Ittihad defender in the dying minutes.
