Corinthians continue revival with last-gasp win

RIO DE JANEIRO (Reuters) -- Substitute Daniel Grando scored with the last kick of the game to give Corinthians a 2-1 win over Noroeste and continue their revival on Sunday.

The 21-year-old, playing his fifth professional game, sneaked in at the near post to flick home a free kick and claim the first goal of his career and a third successive win for his team.

"It was just the way the Corinthians fans like it with fighting, sweat and swearing," coach Emerson Leao told reporters.

Corinthians, Brazil's second most popular club, are seventh in the Paulista championship, the largest of the regional tournaments which kick off the Brazilian season, with 23 points from 14 games.

They need a top-four finish to qualify for the semi-finals.

Defender Gustavo put Corinthians ahead after 35 minutes but Vandinho levelled early in the second half.

There was controversy in the 65th minute when the referee awarded a penalty to Corinthians, then changed his mind after the linesman waved for offside.

Noroeste had Edno sent off when he picked up a second yellow card for kicking the ball away.

Santos stayed top after coming from behind to win 2-1 at Ituano despite resting most of their regular players.

After Marcio Goiano had given Ituano the lead, Carlinhos equalised with a shot from the edge of the area in the 40th minute and Marcos Aurelio scored the winner with a spectacular long-range strike in the 61st.

Santos coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo, whose team are also in the Libertadores Cup, denied fielding a second-string team.

"I have a squad and it's up to me to decide the best way to use it," said the former Brazil and Real Madrid coach.

"I give a chance to all the players. The important thing is that they are motivated for the game, whether it be in the Paulista or the Libertadores."

Santos, who have 35 points, are one ahead of Brazilian champions Sao Paulo who beat Ponte Preta 1-0 through a 25th-minute goal by striker Hugo.

Former Brazil striker Edmundo, 35, scored twice including a penalty as Palmeiras won 4-2 at Sertaozinho to stay fourth. Martinez and Osmar were also on target for Palmeiras.

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