Olhanense v Moncarapachense, vital game on Saturday

On Saturday, Olhanense entertain Moncarapachense at the José Arcanjo Stadium, Olhão (behind McDonalds on the EN125) kick-off 4pm. To say this is a crucial game for Olhanense is an understatement following their abject display against Azores outfit GD Fontinhas on Monday.

Due to a flight cancellation, the game was put back 24 hours from its scheduled Sunday time slot. The visitors got off to a perfect start when Adeilton Cruz headed home direct from a corner after just six minutes. The home side was missing their two most influential players – Carlitos and João Silva, red carded in the previous game – but should still have had enough experience and skill to match the islanders.

Poor control and distribution reflected the general apathy within the team and when Aliu Esteves slid home goal number two for Fontinhas on 61 minutes, it was game over.

Olhanense had a strong claim for a penalty turned down 10 minutes from time, whilst Fontinhas incurred the wroth of the small crowd, who braved the elements, with their constant time-wasting tactics.

After three games, Fontinhas top the six-team promotion League South with six points. Moncarapachense lie in third place on four points whilst Olhanense languish in last place with two points.

 Moncarapachense show their mettle

A single goal 12 minutes after the interval from Nuno Silva was enough for the Moncarapacho team to secure victory at Pêro Pinheiro (Sintra). This important away win sets up a vital local derby against Olhanense on Saturday. The last time the two teams met, in early March, they shared the points with Olhanense grabbing a late equaliser deep into stoppage time.

By CHRIS WRIGHT