BURAIDAH — Gabriel Martinelli scored a hat-trick as Al Hilal delivered a devastating attacking display to thrash Al Taawoun 6-0 on Saturday and move top of the Roshn Saudi League.
The Brazil international opened his Al Hilal account in emphatic fashion, scoring three times in his third appearance since completing his high-profile move from Arsenal.
Fellow summer signing Ollie Watkins struck twice, while substitute Sultan Mandash completed the rout as Simone Inzaghi’s side climbed to the summit heading into the season’s first international break.
Watkins, who scored on his RSL debut against Al Ahli following his move from Aston Villa, opened the scoring before Martinelli took center stage.
The former Arsenal forward grabbed his first Al Hilal goal in the 18th minute, creating space with a clever feint before finishing to double the visitors’ advantage.
Martinelli added another before halftime and completed his hat-trick after the break, providing the platform for Watkins to score his second before Mandash rounded off a commanding night in Buraidah.
The Brazilian was named Man of the Match following a performance that showcased why Al Hilal moved to bring the 25-year-old to Riyadh.
“I’m really happy with the performance today,” Martinelli said. “The team did really well since the start of the game. I mean, 6-0, it’s a good result.
“We deserved the result and it was a great performance from the team. We are going to think about the next game now, but really happy with the performance and with the three goals as well.”
Martinelli said his priority was contributing to the team regardless of whether that came through goals or his work without the ball.
“This is why I’m here,” he said. “I’ve said it from the beginning, I’m here to help the team. Sometimes I’m not going to score, but I’ll help the team in the defensive part and anything I can.
“I’ll be there giving my best and trying my best for this badge.”
Inzaghi was equally impressed by the rapid impact of his new No. 7, particularly given Martinelli’s limited preparation time following his arrival.
“He is delivering high levels and great performances, and he arrived only one day before the NEOM SC match, yet he showed well,” Inzaghi said. “Today he was more ready and succeeded in scoring the hat-trick.”
The emphatic victory moved Al Hilal to 18 points at the top of the RSL standings, one point clear of Al Ittihad.
Defending champions Al Nassr are two points behind Al Hilal after being held to a 1-1 draw by Al Khaleej on Saturday, while Al Qadsiah also have 16 points in fourth.
With Martinelli finding his scoring touch and Watkins continuing his impressive start, Al Hilal head into the international break at the top of the table with their revamped attack already making its mark.
Source: Saudi Gazette