Muscat, Sept 10
Sohar Club claimed a resounding victory over Al Nahda with a score of 13–1 in the match held at Sohar Sports Complex on Tuesday, as part of the preliminary round of Group 2 in the First Division Hockey League.
Sohar wasted no time, with Omar bin Mubarak al Maamari opening the scoring in the first minute with a surprise strike that put Al Nahda under early pressure. The same player doubled the lead in the seventh minute from a well-executed counterattack. Al Nahda tried to respond but lacked sharpness, managing only a consolation goal through Aiham al Araimi in the 13th minute. The first quarter ended 2–1 in Sohar’s favour.
Al Nahda entered the second quarter determined to equalise, applying pressure on the wings and relying on quick breaks, but Sohar’s defence and goalkeeper stood firm. In the 23rd minute, Sohar was awarded a penalty corner, converted successfully by Mubarak al Shibli to make it 3–1. Just a minute later, Ahmed al Amri added the fourth. Sohar continued its dominance, with Sultan al Shibli scoring from another penalty corner in the 27th minute, ending the half 5–1.
The third quarter highlighted the gulf in class as Al Nahda’s performance collapsed. Omar al Maamari capitalised, scoring twice in the 30th and 32nd minutes to complete his hat-trick. Sohar then earned a penalty stroke in the 42nd minute, which Wael Hassan converted to make it 8–1. Two minutes later, Yousuf al Shezawi struck the ninth, before Ahmed al Shibli closed the quarter with the 10th goal. The period ended 10–1 for Sohar.
In the final quarter, Sohar continued their attacking show. Ahmed al Shibli netted the 11th, Omar al Maamari added the 12th and his fifth of the match before Yousuf al Shezawi capped the scoring with the 13th in the dying moments. Sohar sealed a historic 13–1 victory, the biggest result of the tournament so far.
After two rounds, Group 2 of the First Division Hockey League has become highly competitive. Sohar lead with six points from two wins, scoring 23 goals and conceding just once, underlining their firepower and defensive balance. Close behind are Masirah, also on six points, but second on goal difference, with 17 goals scored and a clean sheet record, showcasing defensive solidity. Saham sit third with two defeats, conceding 15 goals without scoring, while Al Nahda are bottom with 25 goals conceded and just one scored. These results indicate that qualification will be a fierce race between Sohar and Masirah, while the remaining teams will aim to recover in the upcoming rounds.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
