SAFWA, Saudi Arabia (Interstat) — Patrick Kelly, a second-half substitute, scored in the 73rd minute to deliver Al-Kawkab a 1-0 victory over Al Safa in a KSA Division 2 match Saturday at Al Safwa Stadium.

The result, coming in Week 21 of the Saudi second division, defied pregame projections that heavily favored the home side. Al-Kawkab’s organized defense held firm against an Al Safa attack that failed to convert its expected advantage.

Kelly’s decisive finish, assisted by fellow substitute Maël Durand de Gevigney, decided the contest. The match was a physical affair, featuring seven yellow cards issued by the officiating crew. With the win, Al-Kawkab begins its league campaign 1-0, while Al Safa starts 0-1.