Essam El-Hadary said Al-Merreikh�s precious 1-0 win over arch-rivals Al-Hilal in Friday�s Sudanese league game boosted his morale following hard times during the past 10 months.
El-Hadary helped Al-Merreikh open their league campaign in convincing fashion, beating Hilal Al-Sahel 2-1 in the opener before overcoming Al-Hilal in a much-anticipated derby.
�I can�t describe my feelings now, my morale is sky high. This win is the most valuable one for me in more than 10 months,� the veteran goalie, 38, said on his personal website.
�I�m pleased with my display, I think I dealt with all opposing attacks. Al-Merreikh supporters can also asses my display better.”��I dedicate this victory to (Egyptian coach) Hossam El-Badry, who exerted much effort to prepare players for that important game.�
The match was played behind closed doors due to the mounting tensions between the two sides.��I missed the fans a lot. It was strange to play such a high-profile game without spectators, whom I consider the 12th�player in any team,� El-Hadary added.
Watch the goal:
[youtube]aElLt3uIN1c[/youtube]
