Win will put us on right track, Santo says
Al Wahda bounce back after two defeats to beat Al Ittihad Kalba 3-1 at the Al Nahyan Stadium in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi: Reigning champions Al Wahda defeated Al Ittihad Kalba, the champions of the First Division, 3-1 on Wednesday night, somewhat easing the pressure that had been mounting on Al Wahda's players after they had lost their first two matches of the season.
Al Wahda had begun the season with a surprise loss in the Super Cup to Emirates Club, who were relegated to the First Division, and then went down 2-0 to Al Wasl in the first week of the UFL.
Important victory
"We are happy that we won this match," said Eissa Ahmad Santo, Al Wahda's right fullback, after the match. "It was an important victory because it will help the players to get over the disappointment of losing our first two matches."
"We did not play as expected because it was our first match at home and most of the players were not able to show their true worth, but after this victory I believe they will return to their usual standards and have self confidence.
"We wanted to win the match because we wanted to give our loyal fans something to compensate them for losing against Emirates and Al Wasl. We need their support this season because we have many challenges, like the World Club Cup and the AFC Champions League in addition, of course, to the local competitions," Santo added.
Al Ittihad defender Mesha'al Abdul Wahab said: "It is sad to lose our second match in a row because that will jeopardise our objective of staying in the UFL for more than one season. Mind you, we know it is only the start of the season and we have lost to the defending champions — but still, losing two straight matches will have a negative effect on our players, especially the youngsters who lack the experience of playing at the top level".
Abdul Wahda, who joined Al Ittihad from Sharjah this season, added: "Our objective is to collect enough points to secure our berth in the UFL competition and I believe we are still capable of doing that. All we need is a bit of good luck so that we can score more goals from the chances we create".
Al Ittihad lost their opening match against Sharjah 3-0.
