After several seasons in the doldrums, having dropped from the Primeira Liga into the relative obscurity of the Campeonato de Portugal, SC Olhanense supporters can look forward to a brighter future.
New Italian investors took charge in December and have had a positive impact on the historic club that celebrates its 107th anniversary on April 27.
Fourteen new signings in January, most of whom were given 18-month contracts, and the recruitment of manager Vasco Faísca, have given the team a new lease of life.
Two successive away victories, the latest at Vidigueira last weekend, have been the product of an attacking attitude that has produced goals. Deep in the heart of the Évora wine district at the small town of Vidigueira, it was the industrious Rodriguez who gave Olhanense the lead after 26 minutes. His strong run, calmly beating two defenders, finished as he smashed the ball past keeper Rui Rosindo.
Sapara added a second 10 minutes before the interval. The home side came out for the second-half with all guns blazing, but Olhanense soaked up the pressure until the 68th minute when Vidigueira pulled a goal back as Diogo Sandes’ shot was deflected past keeper Cleber.
It was time to bring on Leleco and his cool head and calming influence steadied the ship as Olhanense created a superb third goal involving five players. The ball was pinged around the outskirts of the penalty area before Sapara slotted it home for his second of the game. There was still time for Vidigueira to smash a shot against the bar but there was no denying the ‘rubro-negros’ another three points to move them up to fifth place.
On Sunday, SC Olhanense entertain Sporting Ideal (Azores) at the José Arcanjo Stadium, Olhão (behind McDonalds on the EN125), kick-off 11am, so it means an early start as the clocks go forward an hour!
By CHRIS WRIGHT
