体坛英语新闻：Gremio's loss to Gremio Prudente puts coach's job in jeopardy

RIO DE JANEIRO, July 18 (Xinhua) -- Gremio lost 2-0 on road to Gremio Prudente in the Brazilian soccer championship on Sunday.

Gremio remains winless on the road in this year's tournament. A string of recent poor results has put head coach Silas' job in question.

Gremio's place in the standings dropped by two positions to 17th with nine points. The loss places Silas under pressure to produce a win. As the team currently stands, they would be lowered into the second division of the 2011 Brazilian Championship as a result of placing among the last-four teams. Gremio Prudente improved to 12th place with 12 points.

The offense and the defense of Gremio seemed to be on different pages, unable to work together. Gremio Prudente took full advantage, scoring first in the 22nd minute as Paulo Cesar skillfully split the defensive barrier and glided the ball into the back of the Gremio goal.

As the game was coming to an end, Gremio Prudente extended their lead, scoring in the 91st minute when Vanderley slid the ball under an approaching Gremio goalkeeper, Victor.

In the 10th round, Gremio plays host to Vasco da Gama on July 21 in what could be Silas' last game as head coach. On the same day, Gremio Prudente receives Sao Paulo.