Duflot happy with boys’ performance

THOUGH it was Al Arabi’s third triumph of the season, it was the first under coach Patrick Duflot. The Frenchman had replaced Tunisian Mawia Alajnaf, who is now his assistant, following Arabi’s dismal league campaign, where they could manage only a third-place finish.

The former France international was relieved after the Qatar Cup win.

“We were under a great deal of stress due to our poor performance in the league. So we badly needed this victory. I’m very pleased with the triumph,  my first in Qatar. It’s good not only for me but also for the entire team,” said Duflot.

Since Duflot took over, Arabi have looked far more organised, excelling in both defence and attack. Besides, their service has also improved, forcing their rivals into mistakes while receiving.

“Al Rayyan are a good side and have been playing well right now. Before the final, I told my players to serve well. They did exactly that. Overall, it was a fantastic match. We had two new players and the team seems to have adjusted with them very quickly. I must say that other players also raised their level,” he added.