Sporting Covilhã will forever wonder how they failed to score against a defence-minded Olhanense. Nestling in the foothills of the Serra da Estrela, continental Portugal’s highest mountain range, the picturesque Covilhã ground has witnessed many injustices but this game must rank high in the list.
After just two minutes, Zé Tiago went close before Olhanense keeper Moreira saved well from Diogo Ribeiro and this was to be the pattern for the rest of the game. Midway through the first-half, Zé Tiago hit the woodwork and minutes later Diogo Ribeiro also rattled the framework of the Olhanense goal.
It was more of the same in the second-half as Eder shot over and Davidson had his shot well saved by Moreira. It was the 66th minute before Olhanense had a shot on goal when Murilo’s effort flew just over the bar. Shortly afterwards, the visitors had their best opportunity of the game through Leandro Borges but Gilberto blocked his goal bound shot.
Olhanense have now notched up five 0-0 draws in their last 12 games in which they have only conceded two goals but transversely only scored four! Sitting comfortably in mid-table, Olhanense will be hoping to put on a better attacking show in front of the TV cameras on Saturday.
Promotion hopefuls in Olhão
On Saturday, promotion chasing Freamunde are Olhanense’s opponents in the season’s penultimate home league game. Kick-off at the José Arcanjo Stadium, Olhão, is 11.15am in front of the Sport TV cameras who are broadcasting the game live. Last weekend Freamunde drew 0-0 at home against promotion rivals Famalicão who had six players booked and one sent off!
by CHRIS WRIGHT
