Although they failed to secure a victory at Olímpico do Montijo, the Campeonato de Portugal Division D league leaders SC Olhanense opened up a two-point gap at the top as previously undefeated Alverca (Vila Franca de Xira) lost at home to Pinhalnovense.
None of the top five teams won and Olhanense will be disappointed that they failed to convert their superiority into more than a goalless draw against lowly Montijo who had only one win to their name this season.
In the first 60 seconds, centre-forward Hassan broke through but was foiled by a good save from Montijo keeper Diogo Arreigota. The visitors were rampant down the left and, on 15 minutes, a five-man move ended with skipper Leleco’s shot skidding off the top of the crossbar.
Montijo were content to pump the ball down field, but Joshua Silva and Carlitos were comfortably in command at the heart of the Olhanense defence.
Over 100 ‘rubro negra’ fans made the three-hour trip north and were in confident mood as the second period got underway. The home side plugged the space down the left-wing and were happy to keep all 11 players behind the ball thus stifling the visitors’ open attacking play.
The hosts counterattacked as Olhanense pressed forward and looked more dangerous in the closing stages. Olhanense did find the back of the net from a right-wing cross and were surprised when the assistant referee flagged for offside.
On Sunday, Olhanense entertain Fabril do Barreiro (Setúbal District) at the José Arcanjo Stadium, Olhão (behind McDonalds on the EN125) – kick-off 3pm. Fabril, currently second from bottom, have won one, drawn one and lost six whereas Olhanense have won six, drawn one and lost one. The Olhão team has 100% home record with a goal tally of 14 for and five against.
By CHRIS WRIGHT
