Al-Sayed Hamdi responded to criticism of his performances in style, with his well-taken goal giving Petrojet a precious 3-2 victory over Ittihad in an exciting Egyptian Premier League game on Friday. The talented forward finished off a neatly-worked counter attack in the 71st minute to help Petrojet atone for their 1-0 defeat by defending champions Ahli last week. He was found unmarked in the area by a low cross to fire a powerful shot that left Ittihad keeper Al-Hani Soliman with no chance. Hamdi produced some superb displays last season and was eventually rewarded a place in Egypt's squad for the African Cup of Nations last January. Although he failed to make any appearance in the Pharaohs' triumphant campaign in Angola, he was still regarded as an influential member of the team's squad. However, his displays so far this season have been below-par, prompting media to question his abilities. Petrojet coach Helmi Toulan served a touchline ban for severely criticizing the referee of his side's game against Ahli but his side made light of his absence by taking a 21st-minute lead. Burkina Faso midfielder Mohamed Koffi capitalized on a poor defensive clearance to hit a low shot home from inside the area. Ibrahim Al-Shayeb brought Ittihad level two minutes later with another low shot from the edge of the area and an opportunist strike by Cameroonian striker Marc Mboua, who took his tally to three goals, put them ahead on 48 minutes. Petrojet's Mohamed Ibrahim capitalized on a mistake from keeper Soliman to equalize in the 56th minute before Hamdi made the difference 15 minutes later to give the petroleum side all three points. Ittihad, who have yet to win any home game this season, lie ninth in the 16-team table with nine points from as many games, with just goal difference separating them from the bottom three. Petrojet moved up to fifth on 15 points, three behind leaders Zamalek who played a game less.
