LIGA NOS: BELENENSES 1-0 PORTIMONENSE
PORTIMONENSE 1-2 MOREIRENSE
Last Thursday’s away day in Lisbon appeared to be going according to plan when Beto found the back of the net after 10 minutes, only for referee Manuel Mota to disallow the goal for an Aylton Boa Morte foul on Russian keeper Kritciuk.
Beto came close to scoring on two more occasions during the first half before Cassierra took advantage of a Samuel error already in time added on to put the home side ahead against the run of play.
After the restart, Belenenses shored up their defence and, some dangerous counter attacks apart, successfully concentrated on frustrating Portimonense’s efforts whilst hanging on to their slender advantage.
Monday night saw an equally promising start against visiting Moreirense when Fabrício beat away keeper Kewin from the penalty spot following a foul on Aylton Boa Morte in the 18th minute, but the lead only lasted until just before half time as Ferraresi was allowed a free header from a corner to equalise.
After the restart, Kewin did well to keep out a deflected Fali Cande cross – however, the Portimonense defence was again missing in action 10 minutes from the end when an unmarked Franco headed past the helpless Samuel for the winner.
Despite the two defeats, Portimonense are safe from dropping into the two automatic relegation places, and a draw or better at Boavista on Saturday would make sure they avoid the third from last relegation play-off.
By SKIP BANDELE