Olhanense manager Daúto Faquirá said he would play to win in the away game at Gil Vicente and he was nearly true to his word.
With Fernando Alexandre and Mexer out suspended, former Benfica star Louis Philippe made his debut and Salvador Agra started a game for the first time.
Wilson Eduardo ploughed a lone furrow up front with João Gonçlaves and Salvador Agra attacking down the flanks. The Algarveans were under pressure straight from the start but gradually made inroads.
With a minute remaining in the first period, Salvador Agra cut inside and unleashed a shot from 25 metres which keeper Adriano Fachini could only parry. Wilson Eduardo was quickest to react as he headed home the rebound.
Despite dominating the second half, Gil Vicente wasted several gilt edged opportunities. Resolute defending by the Olhanense back four, in which skipper Mauricio was in fine form, and several top class saves by Fabiano Freitas kept the team from Barcelos in check until two minutes from time. Olhanense failed to clear a free-kick into the area and centre-back Laionel Claudio swivelled to plant the ball firmly past the keeper.
The 1-1 draw leaves Olhanense in mid-table, still undefeated away from home.
NEXT OPPONENTS U.LEIRIA
Olhanense entertain second from bottom side U.Leiria at the José Arcanjo Stadium, Olhão (behind McDonalds on the EN125) on Sunday, kick-off: 4.00pm.
Tickets range from €12.50 to €25 and can be purchased on the day.
Chris Wright
