By Robbie Blakeley, Senior Contributing Reporter
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – Flamengo beat Figueirense 1-0 last night in the 34th round of the 2012 Brasileirão to move eleven points clear of the relegation zone with just four games remaining. The result however, left a bitter taste for the visitors who had two legal goals ruled out by the officials.
Fla goalkeeper Paulo Victor also had to be at his best to avoid a late equalizer and the Figueirense players were less than satisfied as they left the field after the final whistle. “Neither goal was offside, we are paying dear for a lot of errors,” Figueirense goalkeeper Wilson commented.
Flamengo made the brighter start and came out pressing the visitors, immediately going in search of the opening goal. Yet their lack of ingenuity in midfield allowed their opponents into the game and on 25 minutes Julio Cesar had his first “goal” ruled out.
Six minutes later a sense of deja vu as Julio Cesar again saw a legal effort ruled out for offside. The penultimate team in the table could have been forgiven for thinking the fates were against them.
Hernane’s well taken goal on 71 minutes confirmed their condemnation, but it mattered little to the Rubro-Negro. They were safe for 2013 and must now look to build for next year to avoid the turmoil the last few months has brought.
In other action of the 34th round, first ranked Fluminense will travel to play fourth ranked São Paulo at 5PM today (Sunday, November 5th). Sixth ranked Botafogo also travels to play 18th ranked Palmeiras and seventh ranked Vasco also plays 17th place Sport at home in the São Januário Stadium at 5PM.
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