The first local derby of the season drew a large crowd to Aljezur Municipal ground with the home fans hoping to continue on its unbeaten run.
It wasn’t long before it was obvious the visitors were not going to lay down, and some swift sharp interplay saw Bensafrim opening up the static home defence. Aljezurense were finding it hard work to get into the game and midway through the first half a ball from the visitors defence found their English centre forward, he looked up to see African 4 backing off and Toco 13 the keeper out of position, with perfect skill the forward lashed an unstoppable volley into the home goal from 35m, 0-1.
For a short while Bensafrim applied the pressure and came close to increasing the lead but fine work by Kieran who at last was finding his feet tidied up at the rear. Aljezurense started to win balls in midfield and surmounted several moves on the visitors goal. With halftime getting close, a fierce shot by Claudimiro 69 bought the goalkeeper into action and from the save Aljezurense gained a corner kick, the perfect execution of this kick threatened the visitors defence and in an aeriel tussle a defender punched the ball away, penalty. Up stepped Casinhas 10 and his perfect shot struck the back of the net 1-1.
Aljzurense played some smart football up to halftime and at last the fans could see a light at the end of the tunnel.
Half Time Aljezurense 1 – 1 Bensafrim
Half time saw changes to the home side with the injured Fabinho 5 being replaced by Laurence 18. His inclusion saw a more controlled midfield and opportunities were coming quick and fast, Casinhas 10 and his front partner Jardel 21 were given goal scoring chances but the visitors defence stood firm.
Kieran 15 was having a fine game and he at last, had the competent, talented visitors’ centre forward in his pocket, giving more impetus to attack . After a fine run by Laurence 18 a corner was gained, up stepped Claudio 69 and his perfect corner found the unmarked Casinhas 10 rising to head home, 2 – 1.
The match which at times had high spirits, kept the referee busy and his yellow card was seldom in his pocket, and it was inevitable that someone would see red. It was no surprise when a Bensafrim defender got his marching orders. Aljezur made a few changes although it was a surprise that saw Simao 80 replaced. Both Pele 14 and Joao 7 increased the fire power up front with Casinhas 10 slipping back into midfield and this change kept the ship water tight.
Aljezur were now well on top with Kieran 15 and African 4 solid in defence and the young Leandro 6 having his best game to date, he is undoubtedly getting stronger and more confident and these two attributes will firstly improve the defence and of course his ability. Laurence 18 with his resilience and passing quality held the midfield with the tireless Casinhas chasing every ball and a swift move by Joao and Pele gained a corner on the left. The kick found Jardel 21 who volleyed the ball home, 3 – 1.
A much deserved win after a shaky start but with so many injuries of important players it is fantastic to see how well the replacements have stepped up to the plate.