It was a cautious opening from both sides with the importance of the game evident in the play. However, it was Avaí who grew into the game first, creating a good chance for Pedro Ken in the process, well-saved by Marcelo Lomba.
But, it was Bahia who took the lead late in the first half through veteran striker Júnior. After some fine work by Paulo Miranda, the ball arrived at the feet of the bleached-blond haired striker and he shot sharply on the turn to open the scoring.
Shortly after the break, the game would change on a stroke of luck. Avaí won a corner and the ball came in from the right hand-side, taking a wicked deflection off defender Fabinho and finding the back of the net.
The score was level and now it was the Florianópolis team with the momentum. William went close, but it was Pedro Ken, slipped in down the left, who would put Avaí in front. His defleced shot left Marcelo Lomba helpless and Avaí were dreaming of an important away win.
Bahia pressed, but were uninspiring when confronted with a solid defensive line. But, as has been Avaí’s major problem this season, gaps were to appear at the back in the final ten minutes.
First it was Júnior who levelled the scoring, turning in the rebound after Felipe had saved well from Fabinho’s initial attempt.
Worse was to follow just two minutes later and once more it was terrible defending to blame. The ball was crossed in from the left, with Lulinha the first to react; trapping the ball before finishing sharply.
Bahia were ecstatic and moved towards the Copa Sudamericana places, Avaí on the other hand look to be set for a date with relegation come the end of the season.
