Undefeated since the end of September, Olhanense were in buoyant mood for the 4th round Portugal Cup game away at P. Ferreira last Sunday.
Their optimism grew when top scorer Abdi netted after quarter-of-an-hour but it was referee Manuel Mota who was to steal the headlines.
Minor offences received a yellow card, there were nine in all, whilst some desperate tackles went unpunished.
The pivotal moment of the game came in the 77th minute and left Olhanense manager Sérgio Conceição fuming but not with the referee on this occasion!
Targino, who had previously been booked, was penalised and proceeded to kick the ball away after the whistle had gone. Referee Mota had no option but to dismiss Targino. Within three minutes the 10 men were behind after the dangerous Cicero netted a brace.
The visitors will be kicking themselves and have only themselves to blame after controlling most of the game.
Afterwards President Isidoro Sousa and Sérgio Conceição were openly critical of the officials and Targino who may well have cost the Algarve club a money spinning fifth round tie against top opposition.
Tomorrow (Saturday) a convey of coaches and cars will be heading for Lisbon where Olhanense take on Benfica at the Stadium of Light. Kick-off at 8.30pm is live on Sport TV. Chris Wright
