Another poor return of a solitary point from two games sees Portimonense firmly anchored in mid-table, 11 counters adrift of a promotion place and a safe-looking 14 clear of the relegation zone.
The visit to high-flying Benfica B resulted in the expected drubbing, accentuated by a Jonathan hat-trick which greatly contributed to the final 4-1 score line. Portimonense keeper Ricardo Ferreira did well to prevent an even bigger disaster while Fabricio claimed the consolation goal with a great second half individual effort.
In contrast, last Sunday’s Algarve derby with Olhanense deserved better than a 1-1 stalemate with manager Carlos Azenha’s men dominating after the interval following a balanced opening 45 minutes during which both Ricardo Pessoa and Murilo for the visitors came closest to breaking the deadlock.
It finally fell to Pessoa to put his side ahead from the penalty spot after Diakhite had been adjudged to have blocked a Zambujo shot with his arm, and Portimonense spurned several opportunities thereafter to double the advantage.
That wastefulness was then duly punished when Diakhite was allowed to redeem himself when converting Olhanense’s only shot on target during the second half with a 79th minute free kick which left the score tied at one a piece.
A lengthy rest will see Portimonense next in action on April 4 away to Sporting Braga B while the Aves provide the opposition a week later at the local municipal stadium.
By SKIP BANDELE
