Two goals in the space seven second-half minutes put Al Shabab on their way to an ultimately comfortable 2-1 victory over Al Jazira and top spot in Group B of the Arabian Gulf Cup.

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With the visitors decimated by international call-ups, it was the Hawks who dominated proceddings with their reward arriving just after the hour mark as their Brazilian front-line cashed in.

First Henrique Luvannor fired the Dubai club into the lead on 61 minutes before ex-Selecao striker Jo plundered a second.

Thiago Neves slotted a late consolation penalty for Jazira, who have plenty of work to do if they are to make progress.

Elsewhere in Group B, Sharjah went from bottom to third with a rousing 4-1 win over Dibba.

After falling behind to Faisal Ahmed’s opener, the King reigned supreme with striker Wanderley smashing a hat-trick and youngster Saif Rashid also on target.

In Group A, holders Al Nasr went down 2-0 to Dubai rivals Al Ahli with striker Lima bagging both goals on the night.

Humaid Abbas swung in a corner for Lima to head the opener on the stroke of halftime, and he took only four minutes of the second half to double his tally with a fine strike.