Nigerian striker Simy Nwankwo announced himself in style at Al-Tai as he scored his first goal for the Saudi Arabian club and also registered an assist in a thrilling 4–3 victory over Al-Adalah on Wednesday evening.
The Nigerian forward was handed a starting role by Al-Tai manager Dinko Jelicic and played a key part in an entertaining Saudi First Division encounter at the Prince Abdullah bin Jalawi Sport City Stadium in Al-Ahsa.
Al-Tai lined up in a 3-4-3 formation, with Simy leading the attack.
Al-Tai made a strong start to the contest, taking a 2–0 lead before half-time. Simy was at the heart of the visitors' attacking play, combining his physical presence up front with intelligent movement and link-up play.
The former Super Eagles striker then got his reward as he found the back of the net with a precise header for his first Al-Tai goal, sparking celebrations among his teammates.
Simy was not finished there. The experienced Nigerian also provided an assist, underlining his influence on the game as Al-Tai repeatedly threatened the Al-Adalah defence.
Al-Adalah refused to surrender and turned the match into a dramatic contest, scoring three goals as they fought their way back into the game. However, Al-Tai kept their composure and eventually secured a 4–3 victory, claiming an important three points in the Saudi First Division.
The result gives Simy an impressive start to life at his new club, with a goal and an assist on the same night.
For a striker who enjoyed a remarkable goalscoring campaign in Saudi Arabia last season with Al-Orobah, the performance will be particularly encouraging as he begins a new chapter with Al-Tai.
Al-Tai's victory also moves them onto the winning side of the early-season standings after they opened the campaign with a defeat to Al-Okhdood.
Simy Nwankwo has wasted no time making his mark in the Saudi First Division and Al-Tai will hope Wednesday night's performance is the beginning of a prolific spell for the Nigerian striker.
