The third and final lengthy gap in the Pro League schedule ends tonight with two matches, including the latest instalment in Al Ain's bid to avoid relegation for the first time in club history.
Because of scheduling conflicts, the league has endured breaks of 45, 41 and 32 days without games. Nine rounds of games are scheduled over the next 12 weeks, however.
After sinking into the relegation zone, Al Ain have shown signs of revival, reaching the Etisalat Cup final with a 3-2 victory over Al Wasl. Al Ain are away to Sharjah at 8.30pm tonight.
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Also
• Al Wahda v Al Jazira: the derby match that has it all
• Dufrennes is proving his point at the Pro League's bottom club Kalba
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In the early game, Al Ahli are home to bottom side Kalba, who sprung a 2-2 shock on the Dubai club back in September.
The most prominent fixture this weekend is the Abu Dhabi derby between Al Wahda and Al Jazira, at Al Nahyan Stadium at 8.30pm tomorrow.
If Wahda can pin a first defeat on league leaders Jazira, Baniyas could draw within four points of the top when they play host to Al Wasl at 8.30pm on Saturday. Baniyas were in the First Division just two seasons ago, but Lufti al Benzarti, the Tunisian coach, led the side to fourth place last year and this season into contention for a first league championship.
