Madeira side Marítimo will arrive in the Algarve to take on SC Olhanense full of confidence after their 1-0 victory over league champions FC Porto last weekend.
Relegation-threatened Olhanense, who were playing away at bottom side P.Ferreira (as the Resident went to press) on Wednesday evening, will have four of their new signings – Sampirisi, Obodo, Paulo Sérgio and Tozé Marreco – available for selection.
Centre-forward Tozé Marreco joined from 2nd Division Tondela just prior to the transfer window closing at the end of last week.
The 26 year-old centre-forward – he has played in Spain, Bulgaria, Switzerland and the Netherlands – could not hide his delight at joining the Algarve side. “I rejected several invitations from abroad because my aim was to play in the Primeira Liga and I will do everything I can to help Olhanense maintain their top flight status.”
Midfielder Paulo Sérgio – signed from Primeira Liga rivals Arouca – returns to the club he played for two years ago when his industrious work rate endeared him to the fans.
Olhanense’s young Senegalese midfielder, 19-year old Pouye, has been loaned to Louletano for the remainder of the season where he will gain valuable experience under the watchful eye of coach Manuel Balela.
Sunday’s game against Marítimo at the José Arcanjo Stadium in Olhão (behind McDonalds on the EN125) kicks-off at 4pm and tickets are available on the day.
Hong Kong gong
Olhanense took the number two spot as they lost 2-0 in the final of the prestigious Lunar New Year Tournament in Hong Kong to local side Citizens United Cuenca. In the semi-final, the Algarveans beat FC Tokyo 6-5 on penalties after drawing 1-1 at full-time. Italian trialist Colluci opened the scoring for the Algarve side from the penalty spot after fifty-two minutes with Mita equalising for the Japanense side fifteen minutes later.
Photo: New player Paulo Sérgio
By CHRIS WRIGHT
