Olhanense and D.Aves were involved in 90 minutes of poor quality football on a pitch that was only passed fit for action four days prior to kick-off.
There had been signs in Olhanense’s previous two games – victories over Penafiel and Atlético – that the Olhão based club was beginning to play some entertaining football.
There was no indication of this as both teams struggled to keep the ball on the ground and resorted to long, lofted clearances.
Early on Murilo (Olhanense) and Mendy (D.Aves) had half chances but neither goalkeeper was unduly worried.
Former Benfica and Portugal goalkeeper Moreira made his debut for Olhanense following his transfer from Cypriot team AC Omonia. The 33-year-old played once for the national side and was understudy to Ricardo at EURO 2004 when Portugal beat England after a penalty shootout.
At the other end of the pitch, 39-year-old Quim was making his 90th appearance for D.Aves after a long and illustrious career at SC Braga and Benfica.
For the past two seasons, Quim – he played 32 times for Portugal – has won the accolade of ’Best Goalkeeper’ in the Segunda Liga.
Back on the pitch, Murilo had a wonderful opportunity to break the deadlock for the home side early in the second-half. The ball bounced kindly for the young centre-forward but with a clear sight of goal he blazed his shot over the bar.
Midway through the half, Ahmed Said made his first appearance for Olhanense and the big, bustling Ghanaian centre-forward, on loan from Italian side Genoa, soon made his presence felt.
With 10 minutes remaining, D.Aves lost centre-forward Marcos Valente when he picked up a second yellow card.
There was still time for Olhanense to mount one last purposeful attack and when Ahmed Said bore down on goal it looked as if he must score, but once again the opportunity went to waste.
Both sides settled for the 0-0 draw but must look for better in the weeks ahead as this season the bottom five clubs will be relegated as the league reduces from 24 to 22 teams.
Bottom side visit Olhanense
Olhanense will be looking to bounce back and pick up all three points as they welcome bottom side Oliveirense to the José Arcanjo Stadium in Olhão on Sunday.
Kick-off is earlier than usual at 3.30pm with tickets at €10 and €6 available on the day.
By CHRIS WRIGHT
