© Reuters 2002

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Jan 24 (Reuters) - World Cup finalists Saudi Arabia overcame a tough United Arab Emirates side 1-0 in the Gulf Cup tournament on Thursday.

Abdullah al-Dossary capitalised on a well-timed cross from Sami al-Jaber to score the lone goal in the third minute as the hosts took their points tally to seven points from three matches, just behind leaders Qatar who beat Oman 2-1 in an earlier match.

The match was played at a fast pace throughout and Saudi keeper Mohammed al-Deayea did well to punch away a stinging shot from Bashir Saeed in the 13th minute before Mohammed Omar blew a golden opportunity to level the score three minutes later.

In the second half, both teams had several opportunities to score.

UAE's Abdulrahim Jumaah missed a close header in the 71st minute while al-Dossary and substitute Omar al-Ghamdi failed to consolidate the lead for Saudi Arabia.

Earlier, Oman surprised tournament leaders Qatar with a goal in the seventh minute when Al-Dhabit converted a penalty.

Qatar began to dominate play in the second half when Jasim al-Tamimi equalised in the 58th minute before Sayed al-Bashir scored in injury time to give their side all three points.