Nuno Lopes looks ahead to CERS Cup Final Four

Alvalade's roller hockey team have the chance to claim a seventh European title this weekend, with the CERS Cup that Sporting so brilliantly won last year up for grabs in Barcelos. “We have to be optimistic and to respect our opponent. It is easy to sit here and talk, but the truth is that this club always plays to win. That is who we are", declared coach Nuno Lopes in his pre-tournament press conference this weekend, ahead of the clash with Vilafrance at 21h45 on Saturday.

“It is curious to see how things have changed this year. Last year nobody really knew what to make of us and we were the underdogs, especially against Réus. This year both us and Barcelos, who are playing at home, are getting more attention. Form on the day makes a big difference in roller hockey and the Final Four will be no exception. The way we are playing now is completely different. For example, last year we always won or lost by a narrow margin, but this year we are more offensive and have notched up some big results. We have experience in the squad and some of the lads have already won international tournaments" explained the Alvalade coach.

In relation to Vilafranca, Nuno Lopes is of course expecting a tough encounter, despite the Spaniards currently languishing down in 9th place in their domestic league. “Vilafranca are a typical Spanish team in the way they play, with three or four really strong players who can make the difference from set pieces and penalties. They will be well organised and will try and keep the game balanced, so that Edu Fernández and Rocasalbas can do damage from dead balls. We know that they will try and do and we will of course try and prevent it. Looking at where they are in the league will only take our focus off what matters most", finished Lopes.

Vicente Moura takes time out to meet with roller hockey squad

Sporting's vice-president for sports, Vicente Moura, spent the morning with the club's roller hockey squad this Thursday, ahead of the trip to Barcelos for the CERS Cup Final Four. Reflecting on his day, the Alvalade figurehead proved confident of reclaiming the title won last year.

“I am convinced that the team will compete at the highest level. Last year I was there and Sporting was not the favourite, but we faced two Spanish teams and we won. That as only possible because this team plays with its hear and soul. A year later things are different of course. Some players have left and some have come in and everyone knows what we are about now, so we won't be a surprise. The match against Vilafranca will be hard, but we believe in the players, coaches and staff. They will do their best, like they did last year", said Vicente Moura in a conversation with the club's official website.