By CHRIS WRIGHT
A first home win of the season for Premier League Olhanense was tempered by a serious injury to their Portugal Under 21 international Salvador Agra.
One up through a superb volley by in-form striker Wilson Eduardo after 22 minutes, the Algarveans were looking comfortable as they pressed for a second against a U.Leiria side that had lost four of its five games.
As half-time approached Salvador Agra challenged for a high ball and was caught by Edson’s knee. Salvador collapsed in a heap and went into convulsions as players of both teams immediately called for medical assistance.
The unconscious player was resuscitated and rushed to Faro Hospital where he was kept under observation.
Shortly after the break, Salvador’s replacement, Figueroa, made it 2-0 when he finished off a superb counter attack by Eduardo and Dady. The industrious Mateus was replaced in midfield by former Benfica player Luís Filipe as the home side endeavoured to close out the game.
But with seven minutes to go, the normally reliable Mauricio failed to clear his lines and from the resulting corner Diego Gaucho smashed the ball past Fabiano Freitas to reduce the arrears.
Olhanense held out to move into the top half of the table. On Sunday, they travel to Madeira to take on Nacional.
MOSS THE STORK
Since gaining promotion three seasons ago the Olhanense mascot, Moss the Stork, has become a regular favourite with local children’s homes, orphanages and schools where he encourages young people to play sport.
His distinctive outfit now needs replacing and the Olhanense Expat Supporters Group have produced 2012 Calendar Fridge Magnets which are being sold to raise funds for a new costume.
Look out for them at the next home game against V.Guimaraes on Saturday, October 22 kick-off is 6.00pm. The game is live on Sport TV.
