The Whites, who have been topping the league table for quite a while, remained five points clear of second-placed Ismaili.

Zamalek's arch-rivals title holders Ahli are third on 33 points, now two adrift of Ismaili.

Balanced Affair

The match was by far a balanced affair that didn't witness many clear-cut chances from either side.

The beginning was relatively cagey, with both teams keen to defend tightly over the first 20 minutes before Zamalek sought to take the lead

Shikabala could have opened the scoring with one of his trademark free kicks that was punched away by keeper Mohamed Fathi, who deputized in the absence of the injured Mohamed Sobhi.

Both teams exchanged attacks and many players tried their luck from distance, with no substantial danger on goal though.

Right after the interval, Ismaili's Abdullah Al-Saied came unmarked to gather a loose ball in the area but missed the target by a mile.

Zamalek midfielder Hassan Mostafa replied on 64 minutes with a precise shot that Fathi competently palmed at full stretch to keep a clean sheet.

Zamalek keeper Abdul-Wahed Al-Sayed also produced a host of magnificent saves in the last 15 minutes to clear a number of drives, including a fierce one from Ahmed Al-Gamal.

Ismaili were also trying to snatch a late goal. Zamalek's substitute Hani Saied cleared the ball off the line in a goalmouth scramble following a free kick by Hosni Abd-Rabou.

The match was halted for a few minutes after bottles, stones and other missiles were thrown at the pitch from the stands.

A man was spotted while receiving treatment on the track. He apparently lost consciousness after being hit by one of the flying objects.