Al Ain looking strong for pre-season cup

Dubai: Al Shabab Oman assistant coach Eisa Al Awisi has tipped the ‘most-prepared' team, Al Ain, for success in the Al Ain International Cup after what he's seen of the team so far in the ongoing friendly tournament.

"I think Al Ain is the most ready team according to their excellent performance against Riffa [of Bahrain]. Riffa is also one of the strongest teams in the Gulf whereas Al Ittihad [of Syria] performed well despite their late arrival," said Al Awisi. He called for the support of Omani fans in Al Shabab's game against Al Ain, after signs of improved fitness were clear from their draw with Al Ittihad Syria.

Meanwhile Al Ain keeper Yousuf Abdul Rahman, who's just returned triumphant from the U-23 Gulf Cup said the team were re-doubling their efforts pre-season.

Abdul Rahman said, "There's no limit to our ambitions in the new season and we'll work together to put a smile back on our fans' lips, we only need perfect support from the fans because they always give us an advantage."

Al Ain's Fawzi Fayez sees the cup as good preparation for the season.

"It comes as an extension of our external camp in Austria and we look to achieve success in the new season," said Fayez.