Normally, SC Olhanense fans would be noisily celebrating an opening day victory at the José Arcanjo Stadium, but, on this occasion, the 2-1 win against Os Armacenenses was greeted by silence, apart from a few distant cheers from the top of a local block of flats, as the game took place behind closed doors.
The punishment was in respect of crowd trouble resulting in last April’s game against Casa Pia being abandoned nine minutes from time.
Olhanense dominated the game against their visitors from Armação de Pêra who were happy to get eleven players behind the ball at every opportunity. But for some wayward finishing, from Hassan and new signing João Vasco, Olhanense could have been at least a couple of goals to the good by the interval. After the break, the home side pushed more men forward which allowed Armacenenses to counterattack with Raul’s long-range shot being scrambled round the post by home keeper Ruben Dionísio.
With nine minutes remaining, Sapara gave Olhanense the lead they deserved as his shot took a deflection to creep past Bruno Costa. Four minutes later and the visitors were level when João Silva volleyed home a right-wing cross but, within 60 seconds, Olhanense were in front again!
Floro’s exquisite cross from the left was hammered into the top left-hand corner by João Vasco to more than make up for his earlier missed chances. A positive opening day performance which augers well for a promotion push from the Campeonato de Portugal (third level).
On Sunday, Olhanense travel to the Beja region to play Aljustrelense. In the same league, Louletano recorded a 2-0 victory at Amora thanks to goals from Chaba and Rafa.
New signings
In addition to Olhanense’s five new signings, who made their debuts against Armacenenses, the experienced 30-year-old Angolan international right-back Carlitos has put pen-to-paper. He previously played for Paços de Ferreira but has been plying his trade in Angola since 2012. Rumour is that there are at least two more players expected to sign in the near future.
By CHRIS WRIGHT
