On Sunday, Olhanense entertain V.Setúbal at the Algarve Stadium, Faro (kick-off 4pm) for a vital game in their battle against relegation.
Rock bottom of the Primeira Liga on nine points and with a string of six consecutive defeats, it is imperative for Paulo Alves (pictured) that the team show the passion and determination that was apparent in the 3-2 defeat against Benfica prior to Christmas.
Skipper Rui Duarte, who is fit to return (he has not played since the last win against Arouca back in October), said: “For us, it will be the game of the season! The whole team knows it must be fully committed. It is worth nothing to say at the end of 90 minutes that we could have done this or that. We must give 100% and be totally motivated, doing everything to win.”
There will be a minute’s silence at all games in Portugal this weekend in memory of the great Eusébio.
The Portuguese Professional Football League were inspecting the José Arcanjo Stadium, Olhão, as the paper went to press in the hope that clearance can be given for the team to return home.
New emergency lighting and additional safety features must meet strict criteria. On Friday January 17 Olhanense entertain V.Guimarães at the Algarve Stadium kick-off 8pm.
Supporters are advised to check a possible change of venue in the light of the league inspection.
Under 21 Georgian international centre-forward Lemondzhava is currently training with Olhanense and is free to sign should manager Paulo Alves like what he sees. The attacker has played for Spartak Moscow and Feyenoord youth teams.
By CHRIS WRIGHT
