Striker Ali Mabkhout bemoaned the timing of Al Jazira’s lacklustre display against Al Wahda as their Arabian Gulf League title dream suffered a severe blow.

Eric Gerets’ second-placed side performed well below their usual level in Sunday’s Abu Dhabi derby, a Sebastian Tagliabue strike earning Al Wahda a 1-0 win. This result opened up a seven-point gap to leaders Al Ain with only four matches remaining.

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“This is very bad [for our title hopes],” Asian Cup top scorer Mabkhout bemoaned. “It was a very bad game, but such games happen.

“We will try our best in the next game to win. It is very difficult for us now.”

Meanwhile, injury-plagued Al Ain striker Asamoah Gyan has praised his team-mates for carrying the goal-scoring load during his disrupted season.

The three-time reigning AGL top scorer was restricted to a substitute’s role once again on Saturday when the Boss beat Al Nasr 2-1, their winner coming courtesy of stand-in centre forward Jires Kembo Ekoko.

“The other guys who were given a chance were able to prove themselves and we are still winning,” the Ghana captain said. “That is the most important thing.

“We are so happy for him [Jires Kembo Ekoko]. He is a good guy.”