Ismaili closed to within four points of Egyptian Premier League leaders Ahli after claiming a 1-0 home victory over Asyut Petroleum in a rescheduled game on Tuesday. Substitute Nasigba John-Jumbo, who joined Ismaili in the January transfer window, scored the winner five minutes past the hour mark. The Dervishes moved into second spot on 44 points to keep alive their hopes of overtaking holders Ahli. Ismaili last won the Egyptian league in 2002 after beating off competition from fierce rivals Ahli. Chances were few and far between in a dull first-half as Ismaili failed to make their domination count while Asyut defended in numbers. The hosts' only chance before the break came through diminutive winger Omar Gamal when he was released clear on goal but blasted his shoot poorly wide. Nigerian striker John-Jumbo was introduced in the second half and was lucky to make an instant impact. In the 65th minute, Abdullah Saied rose unmarked to head a cross from the right but his effort was denied by the post. With a goal-poaching ability, John-Jumbo pounced on the loose ball to tap in into an empty net and take his tally to two league goals. Gamal could have extended Ismaili's lead shortly after but Asyut keeper Mostafa Kamal blocked his close-range shot. The match's goal
