KUWAIT CITY, Feb 17: In its inaugural test match during the current training camp in Manama, Burgan drew 31-31 against its Bahraini counterpart, Al-Ittihad. The team is scheduled to face Bahrain in another friendly match on the 22nd of this month. Seeking a third friendly encounter, Burgan plans to depart for the Qatari capital, Doha, on the 23rd of this month to participate in the 40th Gulf Championship for the Cup Champions Clubs, taking place from the 25th of this month until the 5th of next March.

In the tournament draw, Burgan found itself placed in the first group alongside host clubs Al-Arabi Al-Qatari, Al-Dair Al-Bahraini, and Al-Amman Al-Omani. Meanwhile, the defending champion, Al-Kuwait, is set to compete in the second group against Al-Rayyan of Qatar, Maliha Al-Emirati, and Al-Shabab of Bahrain.Abdulaziz Najeeb, Director of Handball at Burgan Club, commended the Bahraini camp and the players' dedication to the instructions of the technical and administrative staff, expressing confidence in their commitment to putting up a strong performance and contending for the championship title.

Najeeb expressed aspirations to engage in additional matches to finalize the tournament squad and enhance cohesion among players, particularly the new professionals. He also extended gratitude to the Burgan Club's Board of Directors for the substantial support provided to the handball team ahead of their Gulf Championship participation.

In other developments, during the second week of the Handball League, Al-Salmiya triumphed over Al-Sahel with a score of 39-26, securing 4 points for Al-Samawi while leaving Al-Sahel without a score. Additionally, Al-Fahaheel defeated Khaitan 30-26, earning Red Al-Janoub 4 points and Khaitan 2 points. Al-Qadisiyah also emerged victorious against Al-Nasr with a score of 30-26, granting "Yellow" their initial two points in the league, while Al-Nasr obtained one point. Lastly, Kuwait Club secured a win over Al-Qurain with a score of 42-32, elevating Whites to 4 points and granting Al-Qurain one point.

Khaled El Anzi

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff