Ahli found it difficult to break down ENPPI in Thursday's league clash until being helped by Mohamed Abou-Treika's clinical efficiency in front of goal, which they sorely missed during the past few months. The Red Devils had to do without their inspirational playmaker for several months after he sustained a serious foot injury in October last year. They struggled for consistency in his absence and their misfiring strikers were repeatedly kept at bay by opposing defenders. Ahli could have slumped to their second league defeat this season when ENPPI took the lead early in the second half via a goal from Osama Ragab. However, Abou-Treika replaced veteran midfielder Ahmed Hassan to score twice and give them a precious 2-1 win. "It was a very difficult match because ENPPI gave it their all," Ahli coach Hossam Al-Badri said after the game. "Abou-Treika's presence in the second half was vital. He made the difference with his ability to link midfield with attack." The 31-year-old started on the bench again as he is still short of match fitness. He is yet to recapture his top form but his effectiveness rescued Ahli at Arab Contractors Stadium. He leveled the score with a re-taken penalty before rising between two defenders to head home a neat cross from Ahmed Fathi with 10 minutes remaining. "Although he is not at his best, Abou-Treika is capable of scoring at anytime. That's why he is an indispensable member of my team," Al-Badri added.
