Masri maintained their unbeaten run under coach Hossam Hassan after claiming a narrow 1-0 home victory over Tersana in the Egyptian League on Wednesday. Nigerian striker Efosa Eguakun scored the winner few moments before halftime to hand his team a precious win. Masri are yet to taste defeat since veteran striker Hassan, who is yet to announce his retirement from professional football, took over in late February. The victory put the Port Said-based club in ninth place of the league table with 28 points, eight clear of the relegation zone. Masri are likely to retain their top-flight status after their recent revival, which saw them win three matches and draw three since the appointment of Hassan. Tersana lie 13th with 22 points, just two ahead of the relegation zone. Masri's decision to lower the prices of tickets was fruitful as the fans flooded the stadium to support their team. The hosts had the upper hand in terms of possession and squandered an early opportunity to open the scoring.
After eight minutes, forward Ahmed Galal latched onto a deft pass to go clear on goal but his shot was denied by the outstretched hands of Tersana keeper Ahmed Saad. Despite Tersana's defensive approach, they almost stunned the home in the 36th minute. Striker Ahed Abdul-Maguid drove into the penalty area after capitalizing on Mohamed Gaber's slip but his weak shot was easily collected by Masri keeper. Eguakun put Masri ahead just before the break when he neatly released the ball to right for Galal. The former Ahli forward sent an inviting low cross to the Nigerian striker, who made no mistake from close range. Eguakun should have extended Masri's advantage eight minutes after restart but his free header went over the bar. Masri held onto their lead to claim a valuable win that boosted their survival hopes.
