Ahli were struggling for fluency throughout the 90 minutes, allowing Anwar Salama's men to control the match most of the time.

However, the game eventually ended in a 1-1 draw.

Gouna took an early lead when Sherif Ashraf got his name on the score sheet in the 3rd minute but Ahli salvaged a point, thanks to a leveler from Shehab Ahmed.

Gouna guardian Abdul-Monsef believes some of his team's players are still inexperienced, and thus couldn't seal a victory.

"We were superior most of the time and deserved to win the match, but some of our players are still green," the former Zamalek keeper said.

"Ahli are depleted these days because many of their players are nursing injuries.

"We tried to take advantage of their injury-hit squad but they managed to avoid a loss. They are an imposing team for sure."

Ahli have a number of players unavailable through injury, including Ahmed Al-Sayed, Ahmed Hassan, Sayed Moawad, Mohamed Abou-Treika, Francis Doe and Mohamed Fadl.

Up-and-coming midfielder Shehab also sprained his ankle during the match and is expected to be sidelined for a while.

Gouna are now in 11th place on 10 points while defending champions Ahli are keeping pace with their arch-rivals Zamalek on top of the table with 18.

The Red Devils have one more game in hand.