Santa Coloma deny Lusitans the Andorran double
Sunday, May 27, 2012
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Runners-up in the league behind FC Lusitans, FC Santa Coloma got the better of the champions in the Andorran Cup final thanks to Luis Filipe Pinto's first-half own goal.
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FC Santa Coloma eased the pain of missing out on the Andorran Primera Divisió title by defeating FC Lusitans 1-0 in the final of the Copa Constitució.
An own goal by Luis Filipe Pinto shortly before half-time was enough to settle the contest and deny Lusitans, who finished two points ahead of second-placed Santa Coloma in the league, the domestic double.
In a game of few chances, Lusitans started the brighter but went behind in the 42nd minute when Pinto inadvertently deflected Manolo Jiménez's corner into his own net. Santa Coloma sought to increase their advantage after the restart but failed to convert any of the numerous chances they created on the counterattack.
In the end, Luis Blanco's charges held on for the silverware, which brings with it a spot in next season's UEFA Europa League first qualifying round. "We deserved this trophy because we were the better side on the day," said Blanco.
"Although disappointed to have finished as runners-up in the league, victory in the cup means we have ended the season on a high note. We steadily improved throughout the campaign and for that reason I am happy."