Uniao takes big step to staying up in Portugal

LISBON, Portugal (AP) - Unaio de Madeira took a big step toward remaining in the Portuguese top flight by beating Academica 3-1 on Sunday.

Uniao moved five points away from Tondela and Academica, both level on points in the relegation zone with two rounds left.

Elio Martins led Uniao with two goals in the 42nd and 62nd minutes.

Fernando Alexandre gave the visitors hope with a goal in the 67th, but Gian dos Santos capped the win in stoppage time after Academica's Ricardo Nascimento earned a direct red in the 76th.

Elsewhere, Arouca got a brace from Walter Gonzalez to ease to a 3-0 win over Nacional at home.

Estoril also recovered from an early goal by Maritimo to win 2-1, while Boavista drew 1-1 at Moreirense.