Al Jazira manager Marcel Keizer believes his team can maintain their fine form when they meet Al Ain in the Arabian Gulf League at the Hazza bin Zayed Stadium on Thursday.
Jazira have gone on a six-match winning streak since losing to Sharjah on November 7. Keizer’s side are equal on points with Sharjah in the table and are behind the defending champions only on goal difference.
“We have the momentum on our side but this is a very tough and crucial game as Al Ain are definitely a very good side,” the Dutchman said ahead of their Round 12 fixture.
“Our objective as always is to win the three points regardless whom we play. It would be nice to go into the New Year maintaining our strong position in the league table.”
Al Ain will be looking to improve on last week's 1-1 home draw with Kalba 1-1. They are fifth in the table, seven points behind Sharjah and Jazira.
Portuguese manager Pedro Emanuel is confident Jazira's fine form can help motivate his side to hit top gear.
“We are aware of Jazira’s record and they are a confident team coming into this game but I know it will also bring out the best from our players,” he said.
“It is an important game for both teams. For us, three points will give us a massive step forward to improve our position in the league table as we approach the halfway stage of the competition.
“We need to maintain a high level of concentration throughout the 90 minutes if we want to achieve a good result.
“We have put in place a strategy that enables us to get the required result ... and are aiming to take advantage of playing on our home turf."
Al Nasr face Al Wahda at the Al Maktoum Stadium, while Sharjah travel to neighbouring Ajman in the early game and Fujairah host Khorfakkan in the two early games.
Sharjah manager Abdulaziz Al Anbari warned his players of complacency as they bid to retain top spot in the table.
“There are no easy games and I have explained that to my players,” he said. “I expect a strong match but our objective certainly is to return with the three points.”
