Liga NOS: Moreirense 2-0 Portimonense
Portimonense put together a decent performance enjoying the majority of possession against their high-flying opponents – Moreirense are sixth in the table – but were once again undone by more clinical finishing.
Following lively opening exchanges, which saw both sides creating a number of half chances, manager António Folha’s defence was caught flat-footed as Nene headed in a 34th-minute Pedro Nuno corner to give the hosts the lead.
Lucas and Jackson Martinez’s attempts to restore parity before the interval were then efficiently dealt with by Moreirense keeper Jhonatan.
Attempts at a second half revival led by Shoya Nakajima, who saw his translator sent to the stands by referee Hugo Miguel, were soon snuffed out, however, as influential midfielder Chiquinho set up Nuno for Moreirense’s second. Captain Jackson did have the ball in the back of the net in the 74th minute but had his effort ruled off side while young Brazilian striker João Carlos shaved the post not long after, but Portimonense ultimately failed to find a way back from the double set-back.
“We still have a lot to learn,” Folha said after the game, “although I thought we deserved a bit more from our first-half showing”.
Another two-week international break should give Portimonense plenty of time for reflection while star player Nakajima heads off to the Far East where he will be in action against Venezuela (Friday) and Kyrgyzstan on the 20th of this month.
By SKIP BANDELE
