Lokomotiv Moscow closed their Dubai stage with a three-victory run over hosts UAE. After their first triumph on Friday (4-5) the Russian team beat the Asian Champions in their clashes on Saturday and Sunday.
During their second match, Marcelo Mendes put onto the sand some players that have just arrived to the National Team during this same year, so to provide a significant test for them to show their level. They did not disappoint the National coach, showing a great amount of competitiveness and spirit, although that was not enough to bend the experienced Muscovite side. During the first two periods, the Arabian managed to equalize every step forth by the Russian, reaching the first break 1-1, and the second one 2-2. But the same formula did not work for them in the last time, since after Leonov’s last hit, the Russian defense became this time impervious to UAE’s attacks and secured the victory.
Goals: 0-1: Shaikov, min. 8 (1); 1-1: Saeed, min. 11 (1); 1-2: Shkarin, min. 7 (2); 2-2: Abbas, min. 8 (2); 2-3: Leonov, min. 4 (3).
Last clash was even more leveled, and it was not until the penalty shootout that Lokomotiv could claim the victory. The return of important players such as Qambar, Adil Ali or Rami was a key issue for the Arabian to get to their highest level. The pattern of this game was really similar to the previous one, with the Muscovite hitting and UAE hitting back for the equalizer. The only difference was that, this time, Mendes’ squad did manage the 3-3, what sent the game into extra time and, subsequently, to the penalty shootout. And then, captain Leonov came again to the rescue… The Russian star slotted in his attempt, something Ali Karin managed not to do, and the last victory fell on Russian hands, too.
Goals: 0-1: Shishin, min. 5 (1); 1-1: Adil Ali, min. 5 (2); 1-2: Eremeev, min. 6 (2); 2-2: Ahmed, min. 8 (2); 2-3: Leonov, min. 10 (2); 3-3: Jamal, min. 6 (3).
Penalty shootout: Leonov: in. Ali Karim: out.
