Fabinho on Al Ittihad's recent run: 'We have to give good response on the pitch' | OneFootball

A third match without victory was not what Al Ittihad were after.

Yes, in Al Qadsiah, they were up against one of the Roshn Saudi League’s in-form sides. And, admittedly, they were heading for defeat when Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang swept the hosts into the lead in the first minute of injury-time.

So, it took an even later goal from N’Golo Kante to salvage a draw, his 96th-minute equaliser as Thursday became Friday in Dammam ensuring Al Ittihad departed the east coast with a point.

However, the 1-1 scoreline made it three successive draws for the RSL leaders. And, by the conclusion of Matchweek 24 and by dint of Al Hilal’s 2-0 win at Al Fayha the following day, their advantage at the summit reduced to four points.

Obviously, Al Ittihad’s quest for the top-flight title remains on course. However, as midfielder Fabinho conceded, they must get back into the win column – and fast.

“Yes, we need to give a good answer, a good response on the pitch,” the former Liverpool star said. “A team that’s top of the league, that wants to be champions, we cannot be three games without winning.

“But yes, there’s nothing to stay - just be together.”

Fabinho admitted the game at Al Qadsiah, a side whose seven wins in nine had taken them into the top three and therefore into the title picture, had been a thriller, with chances at both ends and rival goalkeepers in fine form.

Enjoying his second season in the RSL, the Brazilian offered that the draw was a fair result, that as good as both teams were, defeat would have been harsh on either one.

As always, and even during this sticky patch, the Al Ittihad support were there at Prince Mohammed bin Fahd Stadium to urge on their players.

The backing wasn’t lost on Fabinho, who called for his teammates to dust themselves off and get ready for their next test: Thursday’s home encounter in Jeddah with ninth-placed Al Riyadh.

“The fans are with us - thanks again to them for coming come here to help support us until the end,” Fabinho said. “The only thing we have to do now is recovery and be ready for the next game.”