It was all disappointing for two top teams, Ac Milan and Lazio on Saturday as both failed to pick up maximum points on their away fixtures on week 30 of Serie A.
Milan had a better result though as they managed to earn a point against inform Catania, while the Biancocelesti were pummeled by Parma at Ennio Tardini, opening the third place chase alive again at the moment.
Playing with Champions League football still on their head, Milan didn’t really seem to get their feet against Catania as they suffered quite a lot especially after taking the lead midway in the first half through Robinho. The Rossoneri seemed content in sitting back and trying to hit their opponent on the counter after scoring, but simply wasn’t focusing on the match as they allowed Vincenzo Montella’s side to take control of the match, mostly in the second half.
After series of pressure, Milan’s back line eventually crumbled as Spolli equalized for the home team, few minutes after Catania thought they had a goal disallowed in a rather controversial fashion although the decision might just be spot on. The controversies kept on sparkling in the second period as Milan had two clear breakout wrongfully judged offside and also a ‘ghost goal’ not given, although it was rather tough call compared to their previous one against Juventus not long ago.
Milan’s coach, Massimiliano Allegri along with vice president, Adriano Galliani, surprisingly were enraged with the decision and making a strong case through the media, which is an uncommon situation made by the Rossoneri. There seems to be some tension looming on the Red and Black squad team recently especially right after Barcelona’s pitch complaint and also rumors about President, Silvio Berlusconi’s disappointment over the team’s approach against the Catalan squad on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, Lazio’s hope in keeping their third place spot secure was hampered after the thrashing they had against Parma at Ennio Tardini stadium. Former Biancocelesti forward, Sergio Floccari netted a brace on the game, adding to McDonald Mariga’s early strike to give the Gialloblu a convincing 3-1 victory over Edy Reja’s team.
Lazio’s only goal was scored by Lionel Scaloni, a defender, proving that losing Miroslav Klose is indeed a big blow for the capital club’s attempt in keeping their current third spot. The likes of Napoli, Udinese and As Roma, will definitely be pumped up in chasing Reja’s side as the opportunities are wide open for those teams to steal the final Champions League ticket for next season.
As for Milan, the draw could cut their four points lead with Juventus into just two should Antonio Conte’s side managed to beat Napoli on Sunday evening, but they still have the upper hand considering a much more easier schedule in the final part of season. However, Milan must smartly managed their focus in Champions League, especially should they somehow managed to escape Barcelona’s challenge in Camp Nou this Tuesday.