Inglorious against all Gods

Men

Portugal vs. Belgium, 4-4 (2-2)

Inglorious against all Gods

The match between Portugal and Belgium really began when Belgians inaugurated the score (2m). The hosts scored 1-1 two minutes later and the game was played at a good pace with both teams closing their defenses hardly and quick counter attacks.The 8th minute brought a penalty corner in favour of the Portuguese team but it was missed. At the middle of this half the Belgians increased high pression but the Lusitanians answered always with danger. With 6 minutes to play, penalty stroke and 2-1 for Belgians. Portugal lost a penalty corner but toke advantage of a penalty stroke (18m). With six field players, Portugal tried yet the  3-2 on the last minute but in vain.

On the second half, Portugal arrived to the 3-2 (22m), the Belgians drawed (25m) and toke advantage (31m) scoring a penalty stroke and a penalty corner. The Portuguese missed another penalty corner (37m) but scored the last (53s to play) transforming it on a penalty stroke (22s to play). Portugal deserved a better luck and better umpires. Belgium is promoted to Championship II.

Armindo de Vasconcelos