Marítimo were the first Portuguese top flight team to see competitive action in 2012/13, and it was a positive start to the new campaign for the islanders, bringing a 1-1 draw back from Asteras Tripolis in the first leg of the Europa League 3rd qualifying round.

Rayo put the hosts ahead, but Fidelis struck the equaliser and what could prove a vital away goal.

Marítimo, who qualified for Europe thanks to a fifth-place finish in the Liga ZON Sagres last season, started brightly. Fidelis and João Luiz threatened early on, but as the half wore on Asteras gradually got on top.

Amero came close to breaking the deadlock for the hosts just before the break. The lively Rayo was causing the Portuguese side increasing problems and it would be the skilful Spaniard who gave the Greeks the lead in the 48th minute with a cool finish after Marítimo goalkeeper Salin had dealt poorly with a cross.

Marítimo responded well to the setback. João Guilherme and Fidelis had already come close to an equaliser before Brazilian striker Fidelis finally got the goal he had threatened all night, tucking away a pass from Danilo Dias.

The Madeira team were content to play down the clock and secure the draw. The second leg takes place in one week’s time in Funchal, with Marítimo handily placed to make progress to the play-off round.

Pedro Martins, Marítimo coach:
“It was a fast-paced match. I think we’ve got a good chance of obtaining a better result at home.”

Maritimo:
Salin, Ruben Ferreira, Roberge, João Guilherme, Briguel, Rafael Miranda, Joao Luiz, Sami, Danilo Dias (Igor Rossi, 87), Héldon (Rodrigo António, 73), Fidelis (Adílson, 86)

Goals:
[1-0] Rayo, 48’
[1-1] Fidelis, 71’

by Tom Kundert