Algarve 7s Rugby
The fifth edition of the annual Algarve 7s proved to be another success, with over seventy international sides and over two hundred athletes taking part. The event has now expanded to include netball, hockey, and golf within its programme. Such is its increase in popularity that the event is now broadcast live on YouTube. Algarve netball sides Lagos Fireballs and Vipers NC (Vilamoura) both competed in the competition. Photos © Luis Cabelo
Algarve Football
Portimonense have suffered an agonising defeat in their Primeira Liga relegation play-off. A 4-2 aggregate reverse to AVS saw the side from Portimão relegated to Division 2 after seven seasons in the top flight. Despite dominating possession, goal-scoring chances were at a premium for the team from the Algarve and they subsequently lost both legs 2-1. Following the end of the match, head coach Paulo Sérgio left his role despite being offered the chance to lead them back to the top division. In a note to the media, Sérgio stated, “Today is a very sad day for me. After a very difficult season, after having given my all, after five years and almost two hundred games, with very strong bonds of friendship in the club and in the city, I understand that the best thing for everyone will be not to renew the professional connection.”
International youth football
Portugal’s impressive run at the UEFA European Under 17 Championships has come to an end in the final following a disappointing 3-0 defeat to Italy. In truth, the Italians were the far better side and deserved their victory. Despite defeat, the young Wolves will take solace from an excellent tournament and will be delighted that Porto striker Rodrigo Mora finished as the competition’s top scorer.
Athletics
Portugal has completed its European Athletics Championships campaign with two medals – a silver and a bronze. There were mixed emotions for the two medallists, as Olympic triple jump champion Pedro Pichardo could only finish second despite jumping 18.04m, just 4cm shy of his personal best. However, there was joy in the discus for Liliana Cá, whose throw of 64.53 metres saw her take third place and win her first major championship medal.
Netball
Europe Netball has visited Portugal to deliver a two-day event focusing on coaching and umpiring. The weekend was a showcase of knowledge and skills conducted by Europe Netball’s officiating director Cheryl Danson, and Amy Griffiths, head netball coach of the University of Gloucestershire’s 3rd, 4th, and 5th BUCS teams. Though in its infancy, netball in Portugal is growing fast and is in need of new players to help create a national team. If you are interested in playing, email info@netballportugal.com
Tennis
Portugal’s number one men’s tennis player Nuno Borghes has crashed out of the French Open in the first round. The twenty-seven-year-old was given a tough draw against the world number 34 Tomas Machac but lost in straight sets. Borghes, who is coached by Algarve tennis legend Rui Machado, came into the tournament on good form but was let down by his second serve. He will now focus his attention on Wimbledon as he looks to get past round one for the first time.
Rugby
The Portuguese national men’s team will have two exciting away fixtures this month. On 12 July, they will take on fellow tier-2 nation Namibia before a historic match against World Champions South Africa in Bloemfontein on 20 July. The match against the Springboks will be the first time the two nations have ever played each other, and it doesn’t get any more difficult than playing the world’s best team in their own backyard. Whatever the result, Portugal will gain much-needed experience against tier-1 opposition.
Contact David Lugg: david@tomorrowalgarve.com to publicise a sporting event or a rising star
