By Robbie Blakeley, Senior Contributing Reporter
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – The second round of the 2013 Taça Rio, the Campeonato Carioca state tournament’s second act, was less than successful for Rio’s big four, with only Botafogo managing to take three points. After Vasco’s loss on Wednesday night, Fluminense and Flamengo both recorded goalless draws against Duque de Caxias and Boavista respectively.
Fluminense were able to call on the experienced Deco, finally back from injury, but it was not enough as the Tricolor were held to a goalless stalemate. Flu is now second in the Group B behind Resende, and will face Macaé Wednesday.
For Flamengo it has been a turbulent week after the sacking of coach Doríval Junior. The relative novice Jorginho has taken the reins but his opener was to end in disappointment at the Engenhão Stadium.
The side left the field to resounding boos but the new boss must be given time to build a side in his own image and try to change the crestfallen mentality of his inherited squad. Fla sits just one off the bottom of the Group B table.
Goals from Doria and Seedorf gave Botafogo a 2-1 over Madureira. But the game will be noted for the dismissal of Clarence Seedorf, which few in the stands or watching from home could fathom.
Having scored what would be the winner midway through the second half, his decision to walk off the field in a different position to which the referee directed resulted in a red card. Botafogo nevertheless top Group A, while Vasco sit bottom.
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