Saudi Gazette report

KHOBAR — Al Qadsiah were held to a 1-1 draw by Damac on Saturday in Matchweek 11 of the Roshn Saudi Pro League, as Northern Irish coach Brendan Rodgers began his tenure on the Qadsiah bench.

The result lifted Al Qadsiah to 18 points, keeping them fifth in the standings, while Damac moved to six points in 16th place as their winless run continued.

Damac took an early lead in the fourth minute through Valentin Vada, catching the hosts off guard with a quick start. Al Qadsiah responded with sustained pressure and were rewarded in first-half stoppage time when Mateo Retegui equalised in the first minute of added time, finishing clinically to restore parity before the break.

The visitors’ task became more difficult in the 79th minute when Abdulrahman Al Khaibari was shown a red card, forcing Damac to complete the match with 10 men. Despite the numerical advantage and territorial dominance, Al Qadsiah were unable to find a winning goal.

Speaking after the match, Rodgers admitted the result was disappointing but highlighted several positives from his first game in charge.

“It’s not a good result for us, but there were positive signs,” Rodgers said. “We need to continue working on improving both our defensive and attacking phases.”

The former Celtic and Leicester City coach stressed the importance of composure in the final third, noting that his players showed commitment and intensity in their attempts to secure all three points.

“In the final third, we needed more patience and focus,” he added. “I saw players fighting to give something back to the fans, who were excellent and very supportive.”

Responding to a question on his satisfaction with the performance despite dropping points, Rodgers said: “Yes, we lost two points, but we created many chances and controlled the game. That gives us confidence that positive results will come in the next matches.”