After four wins and four draws, Hassan's men were down by Mohamed Fadl, 13, and Abdullah Al-Saied, 86, goals.

Ismaili keep the chase up for the second spot as they are third with 47 points, just three behind second-placed Zamalek and they still have a game in hand. Masri are 9th with 32 points.

Hosni Abd-Rabou made a brilliant individual effort before handing a slick pass to Fadl, who hit the back of the net to give the hosts an early lead.

Masri got back in the game and were better in terms of possession but failed to create any real threat on Mohamed Sobhi's net.

The game took another twist in the 40th minute as Abd-Rabou was sent off for a violent conduct against Wagih Abdul-Azeem.

The Port Said side pressed harder and Hassan used all his attacking options but failed to break through the Dervishes' solid defense.

The hosts played on counters and finally their efforts paid off as Al-Saied scored from close range to secure the points of the game.