A positive season, slightly less problematic than what the fans may have feared. A decent 11th place in the end, but, most importantly, avoided relegation before the last round.
Having lost their leader (coach Vítor Oliveira, deceased in the meantime), arguably their biggest talents of last season, Kraev and Rúben Ribeiro, and having picked just 3 wins in the first 16 rounds (9 defeats), Gil Vicente seemed destined for a very tough season.
The unknown Rui Almeida didn’t last more than 7 rounds on the dugout before club’s favourite Ricardo Soares was brought in as an effective replacement. Soares, just coming from leaving Moreirense, picked points immediately after arriving, and got Gil Vicente to play a similar game to that of last season.
After some frustrating attempts, finally the winger Lourency confirmed his talent on a more regular basis. Goalkeeper Denis was once again a rock at the back, but the biggest individual highlight has to go to the new signing Lucas Mineiro, whose great season already earned him a contract with Braga for next season.
New signing Pedrinho had a good impact on the team, even if not always a regular starter. Young but experienced Pedro Marques provided a less risky option for the striker instead of the immature Samuel Lino.
Gil Vicente seems to have a good structure to be ambitious next season, but they will need to bring a handful of new quality players as the current squad seems very short of options, at the moment.
