Al Rayyan captain Rodrigo Tabata (centre) celebrates a goal with this teammates during their Qatar Stars League round nine match against Qatar Sports Club on Sunday.

Al Rayyan captain Rodrigo Tabata has said the team is on the right track for the season in an interview with QSL online.
Tabata observed that the fighting spirit, good management and fans are the true weapon and the secret of the team’s victories so far this season.
Tabata said that after defeating QSC 9-0 in Round 9, Al Rayyan, Al Sadd and El Jaish are the strongest teams so far this season. However, he did caution that the league has a long way to go and will probably witness more surprises.
Excerpts:

What do you think of Al Rayyan’s campaign so far?
The team is on the right track for the Qatar Stars League title. We have gained nine victories in nine rounds. Everyone in the team is looking to continue with positive results; we are very much focused.

The huge win over Qatar SC must be very heartening… even though everyone expected Al Rayyan to win.
Yes… Expectations are one thing and reality is something else. It is true that QSC is in a bad situation and in crisis, but we dealt with the game in a professional manner and with respect for our opponents. There was discipline, commitment and we trained hard for it.

What is the secret behind the winning streak?
There are lots of factors, most importantly the spirit of the team and the huge role played by the technical staff, which is led by Fossati. In addition, the support of the club management which is headed by the president Sheikh Saoud bin Khalid al-Thani. Last but not the least, we can’t forget the role the fans play.

Which do you reckon is the best team in the league apart from Al Rayyan?
Currently, El Jaish, Al Sadd and Al Arabi are the closest in terms of points. However the league is still in early stages and I am sure there will be many surprises as it progresses.

A lot of people expect Rayyan to win the league title, what do you think of that?
This is a good thing indeed, but this is just the beginning. We have to continue with what we have demonstrated during the previous nine rounds in order to maintain the top spot. As they say, it is hard to reach the top but it’s even harder to stay there.

What does Al Rayyan need to win the QSL title?
Our efforts are there. A bit of luck during the crucial games will help the cause.

You have improved from one match to another. What do you have to say about that?
I give my all during the training sessions and matches in order to serve the best interests of the team and the fans, who expect a lot from me.

Is winning the MVP on your mind?
Individual awards is not my focus at the moment. The team and the league title is.

Who, according to  you, is the best foreign player in the league so far?
In my opinion, Al Sadd’s (Brazilian striker) Muriqui.