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| Monday, 10 May 2010 10:04 |
Maritimo snatch last Europa League berthDramatic turnaround on final day For the seventh time in their history Maritimo will be competing in Vitoria Guimaraes began the afternoon very much in the box seat as three teams looked to secure the fifth place finish in the Liga Sagres table that carried the prize of European football next season.
A draw would have been sufficient for the northerners and things appeared to be going to plan in coach Paulo Sergio’s final match in charge as Valdomiro gave the hosts the lead on 14 minutes.
On the stroke of half time Brazilian striker Kleber equalised for Maritimo, but to qualify for Europe Mitchell van der Gaag’s side needed the win and also needed
Kleber stunned the home fans with his second goal on 81 minutes, which proved to be the winner. The final whistle was followed by anxious moments for the Maritimo players as they awaited news of the result from the Choupana.
Confirmation of the draw between Nacional and
by Tom Kundert
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They had the season, basically stolen from them.
First, the game in Braga was basically stolen away from them, and the reasons on how have been documented plenty, with still no explanation given.
If that wasn't enough, Sporting come along and take their manager away. They, especially Paulo Sergio, should have had the decency to wait until the end of the season to make any announcement. Then again, Sporting was afraid that it was going to lose 4th place to Guimaraes at the time.
All the red cards form the Braga game, along with the managerial sabotage totally distabilized the club.
Guimaraes and its fans deserved better.
ole maritimo ole ole ole