SERIE B REVIEW

Turin proud

Turin Turin proudproud

Juventus have eased back into Serie A, leaving Genoa and Napoli straining to cling on to their coattails. Paul Watson reports After 10 months out of the top flight, a dark chapter in Juventus’ prestigious history has closed. The champagne had been on ice since the Calciopoli handicap was cut to just nine points in October, and promotion was mathematically guaranteed in Week 39 with a 5-1 rout of Arezzo in sleepy Tuscany. This year has certainly provided some humbling moments for Italy’s most successful side. Surely no Juve fan expected to see their side share the points with Albinoleffe, Rimini or Spezia in their lifetime, let alone suffer the indignity of defeat at Mantova. However, despite the numerous dissenting voices heard after the Bianconeri’s rare slip-ups, their journey back to Serie A has been a smooth one. In fact, even if Didier Deschamps’ men had been docked 30 points as originally planned they would still be on course for a play-off place. While the Juve tifosi will be licking their lips at the Old Lady’s imminent return to calcio’s top table, next season may not see the glorious return they longed for while watching their side in the Cadetti’s modest arenas. The first priority next term will be European qualification, but a UEFA Cup berth may be the limit of Deschamps’ ambitions. We only need to look to Milan for a cautionary tale. The Rossoneri were banished to Serie B after the Totonero betting scandal in 1979-80 and responded by securing the Second Division championship the following season. However, the Diavoli suffered a hellish return to the top flight and slid to another relegation in 1981-82. While Juve should easily avoid that fate, it may still take time to restart the juggernaut.

Juventus have eased back into Serie A, leaving Genoa and Napoli straining to cling on to their coattails. Paul Watson reports Paul Watson reports Paul Watson After 10 months out of the top flight, a dark chapter in Juventus’ prestigious history has closed. The champagne had been on ice since the Calciopoli handicap was cut to just nine points in October, and promotion was mathematically guaranteed in Week 39 with a 5-1 rout of Arezzo in sleepy Tuscany. This year has certainly provided some humbling moments for Italy’s most successful side. Surely no Juve fan expected to see their side share the points with Albinoleffe, Rimini or Spezia in their lifetime, let alone suffer the indignity of defeat at Mantova. However, despite the numerous dissenting voices heard after the Bianconeri’s rare slip-ups, their journey back to Serie A has been a smooth one. In fact, even if Didier Deschamps’ men had been docked 30 points as originally planned they would still be on course for a play-off place. While the Juve tifosi will be licking their lips at the Old Lady’s imminent return to calcio’s top table, next season may not see the glorious return they longed for while watching their side in the Cadetti’s modest arenas. The first priority next term will be European qualification, but a UEFA Cup berth may be the limit of Deschamps’ ambitions. We only need to look to Milan for a cautionary tale. The Rossoneri were banished to Serie B after the Totonero betting scandal in 1979-80 and responded by securing the Second Division championship the following season. However, the Diavoli suffered a hellish return to the top flight and slid to another relegation in 1981-82. While Juve should easily avoid that fate, it may still take time to restart the juggernaut.

One of Serie B’s other heavyweights, Napoli or Genoa, could be facing the agony of the play-offs. Having spent the last few months trading blows, Genoa have chosen the ideal time to gain the upper hand. News of Napoli’s Week 37 defeat at Mantova was understandably greeted with jubilation from the Grifoni’s travelling support after their 20 win at Frosinone. The advantage is with the Genovese, but as with all the best fights, the knockout blow won’t be struck until the final round when Napoli visit the Luigi Ferraris. However, there could also be a twist in the tale. If the third-placed side lead fourth place by 10 points or more, they are automatically promoted and there are no play-offs. With the Vesuviani leading Rimini by nine points, the final day clash could just turn into a carnival. At the other end of the table, how appropriate that Arezzo should be the victims on the day Juve consign Calciopoli to the history books. The Arietini – led by ex-Juve captain Antonio Conte – look set to be the scandal’s true casualties with their six-point handicap likely to condemn them to life in Serie C. Despite propping up the table for most of the season, Conte’s men battled back in April to give 1984-85 Scudetto winners Verona sleepless nights, but it looks like they will fall just short. Arezzo’s hopes of performing the Great Escape could now depend on a courtroom appeal against their points deduction, due to be heard on June 7. As long as they keep within six points of the Mastini, a Veronese tragedy isn’t out of the question.

One of Serie B’s other heavyweights, Napoli or Genoa, could be facing the agony of the play-offs. Having spent the last few months trading blows, Genoa have chosen the ideal time to gain the upper hand. News of Napoli’s Week 37 defeat at Mantova was understandably greeted with jubilation from the Grifoni’s travelling support after their 20 win at Frosinone. The advantage is with the Genovese, but as with all the best fights, the knockout blow won’t be struck until the final round when Napoli visit the Luigi Ferraris. However, there could also be a twist in the tale. If the third-placed side lead fourth place by 10 points or more, they are automatically promoted and there are no play-offs. With the Vesuviani leading Rimini by nine points, the final day clash could just turn into a carnival. At the other end of the table, how appropriate that Arezzo should be the victims on the day Juve consign Calciopoli to the history books. The Arietini – led by ex-Juve captain Antonio Conte – look set to be the scandal’s true casualties with their six-point handicap likely to condemn them to life in Serie C. Despite propping up the table for most of the season, Conte’s men battled back in April to give 1984-85 Scudetto winners Verona sleepless nights, but it looks like they will fall just short. Arezzo’s hopes of performing the Great Escape could now depend on a courtroom appeal against their points deduction, due to be heard on June 7. As long as they keep within six points of the Mastini, a Veronese tragedy isn’t out of the question.

Alessandro Del Piero scored twice in Juventus’ 5-1 win at Arezzo which ensured their Serie A return in Week 39

Alessandro Del Piero scored twice in Juventus’ 5-1 win at Arezzo which ensured their Serie A return in Week 39

Marco Ferrante models the reissued yellow version of Verona's classic 1985 kit. Hans-Peter Briegel sports the original in blue

Marco Ferrante models the reissued yellow version of Verona's classic 1985 kit. Hans-Peter Briegel sports the original in blue

Verona marked the 22nd anniversary of their only Scudetto win in Week 38 by wearing a replica shirt of the jersey they used in that unforgettable 1985 success. However, it failed to inspire the players as they were held to a 2-2 draw in their Serie B relegation dogfight with Frosinone. Getting shirty

Verona marked the 22nd anniversary of their only Scudetto win in Week 38 by wearing a replica Verona marked the 22nd anniversary of their only Scudetto win in Week 38 by wearing a replica V shirt of the jersey they used in that unforgettable 1985 success. However, it failed to inspire the players as they were held to a 2-2 draw in their Serie B relegation dogfight with Frosinone. Getting shirtyGetting shirty

RESULTS FIXTUR E S S C O R E R S A T T E N D A N C E S R E S U L T S F
Bobby Gol It looks like a new star has been born in Serie B. According to many pundits and Coaches, Robert Acquafresca is one of the most promising talents in Italian football and his great season at Treviso is showing how this youngster could soon become a top class player. However, it is not the first time that the talented 20-year-old bomber has come into the public eye, as many clubs have been following his steps closely for a while. The half-Polish hitman was born in Turin and started his career in the Granata youth team. At the age of 17, when he was just about to be promoted to the first-team squad, the club collapsed under the ownership of Franco Cimminelli. It was a very delicate moment for him as he attempted to plot his future career path through football. “It was the hardest summer of my life. I decided to join Inter because they offered me the best chance. Now I am on loan to Treviso and everything is perfect,” said the Biancocelesti top scorer. At the time Acquafresca had bids from teams such as Milan, Palermo and Chievo, but also received a big offer from Manchester United. “Some English teams wanted to sign me, but I love my country. I would never have left Torino if it weren’t for the financial problems they were having. That was a great team with Gianluca Comotto, Pippo Maniero and Fabio Quagliarella.” Robert is a big Granata fan, but his heart also beats for Inter today. “I became a Nerazzurri fan thanks to Roberto Baggio. Right now my favourites are Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Alessandro Del Piero, although people have told me that I am more similar to Pippo Inzaghi.” Acquafresca has played for Italy from Under-16 level up to the Under-19s and his plan now is to reach Roberto Donadoni’s Nazionale. Last year he also had the chance to play for the Under-19s against Marcello Lippi’s Azzurri, scoring two wonderful goals. “Before playing a match I always feel my granddad saying ‘Look at the goal’, that is my carpe diem! My lucky number is 18, since I debuted in Serie A on the day of my 18th birthday.” The youngster definitely has a great destiny ahead of him, and will probably establish himself at a higher level, but for now Serie B suits him perfectly. “Here in Veneto I feel really comfortable. It’s the best place for me to play football and the fans don’t put too much pressure on me. There is still plenty of time for Serie A.” Given his current scoring record, it is likely to be sooner rather than later. SERAFINO INGARDIA

Bobby GolBobby Gol IIt looks like a new star has been born in Serie B. According to t looks like a new star has been born in Serie B. According to many pundits and Coaches, Robert Acquafresca is one of the most promising talents in Italian football and his great season at Treviso is showing how this youngster could soon become a top class player. However, it is not the first time that the talented 20-year-old bomber has come into the public eye, as many clubs have been following his steps closely for a while. The half-Polish hitman was born in Turin and started his career in the Granata youth team. At the age of 17, when he was just about to be promoted to the first-team squad, the club collapsed under the ownership of Franco Cimminelli. It was a very delicate moment for him as he attempted to plot his future career path through football. “It was the hardest summer of my life. I decided to join Inter because they offered me the best chance. Now I am on loan to Treviso and everything is perfect,” said the Biancocelesti top scorer. At the time Acquafresca had bids from teams such as Milan, Palermo and Chievo, but also received a big offer from Manchester United. “Some English teams wanted to sign me, but I love my country. I would never have left Torino if it weren’t for the financial problems they were having. That was a great team with Gianluca Comotto, Pippo Maniero and Fabio Quagliarella.” Robert is a big Granata fan, but his heart also beats for Inter today. “I became a Nerazzurri fan thanks to Roberto Baggio. Right now my favourites are Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Alessandro Del Piero, although people have told me that I am more similar to Pippo Inzaghi.” Acquafresca has played for Italy from Under-16 level up to the Under-19s and his plan now is to reach Roberto Donadoni’s Nazionale. Last year he also had the chance to play for the Under-19s against Marcello Lippi’s Azzurri, scoring two wonderful goals. “Before playing a match I always feel my granddad saying ‘Look at the goal’, that is my carpe diem! My lucky number is 18, since I debuted in Serie A on the day of my 18th birthday.” The youngster definitely has a great destiny ahead of him, and will probably establish himself at a higher level, but for now Serie B suits him perfectly. “Here in Veneto I feel really comfortable. It’s the best place for me to play football and the fans don’t put too much pressure on me. There is still plenty of time for Serie A.” Given his current scoring record, it is likely to be sooner rather than later. SERAFINO INGARDIA

fan thanks to Roberto Baggio. Right now my favourites are Zlatan fan thanks to Roberto Baggio. Right now my favourites are Zlatan fan thanks to Roberto Baggio. Right now my favourites are Zlatan

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WEEK 35 21/04/07

WEEK 35 21/04/07

Calcio

Calcio

Player of the Week Papa Waigo (Cesena)

Player of the Week Papa Waigo (Cesena)(Cesena)

David Trezeguet breaks his goal drought as Juventus dominate Genoa and fly seven points clear, allowing Napoli to go second after their fightback at Frosinone. Bologna continue their revival under Luca Cecconi, ending Verona’s 11-match unbeaten run, as Rimini stall at the Romeo Menti and fiery Mantova recapture fourth. Piacenza terminate a run of four straight defeats, but lose Daniele Cacia.

David Trezeguet breaks his goal drought as Juventus dominate Genoa and fly seven points clear, allowing Napoli to go second after their fightback at Frosinone. Bologna continue their revival under Luca Cecconi, ending Verona’s 11-match unbeaten run, as Rimini stall at the Romeo Menti and fiery Mantova recapture fourth. Piacenza terminate a run of four straight defeats, but lose Daniele Cacia.

Frosinone 1-2 Napoli Castillo 62 Sosa 67 (7,083) Trotta 89 Ref: Girardi

Frosinone 1-2 Napoli Castillo 62 Sosa 67 (7,083) (7,083) (7,083) Trotta 89 Ref: Ref: Ref Girardi

Pescara 1-2 Arezzo Martini 80 Croce 10 (3,514) Capelli 42 Ref: Lena

Pescara 1-2 Arezzo Martini 80 Croce 10 (3,514) (3,514) (3,514) Capelli 42 Ref: Ref: Ref Lena

Piacenza 2-1 Crotone Simon 65 Lopez 45 Degano pen 76 (3,574) Ref: Celi

Piacenza 2-1 Crotone Simon 65 Lopez 45 Degano pen 76 (3,574) Ref: Ref: Ref Celi

Spezia 2-2 Triestina Quadri 11 Allegretti 2 Guidetti 90 Marchesetti 7 Ref: Damato (6,425)

Spezia 2-2 Triestina Quadri 11 Allegretti 2 Guidetti 90 Marchesetti 7 Ref: Damato Damato Damato (6,425)

Treviso 1-1 Modena Fava 72 Pinardi pen 90 Gissi s/o 80 (2,807) Ref: Gervasoni

Treviso 1-1 Modena Fava 72 Pinardi pen 90 Gissi s/o 80 (2,807) Ref: Gervasoni

Juventus 3-1 Genoa Nedved 19 Di Vaio 45 Chiellini 38 (21,953) Trezeguet 68 Ref: Morganti Juventus: Buffon; Birindelli (Boumsong 59), Zebina, Legrottaglie, Chiellini; Camoranesi (Marchionni 67), Marchisio, Giannichedda, Nedved; Trezeguet, Del Piero (Zalayeta 91) Genoa: Rubinho; Masiello, Stellini, Criscito; Juric, Milanetto (Galeoto 76), Botta (Coppola 41), Fabiano; Rossi (Leon 49), Gasparetto, Di Vaio

Juventus 3-1 Genoa Nedved 19 Di Vaio 45 Chiellini 38 (21,953) Trezeguet 68 Ref: MorgantiRef: MorgantiRef Juventus: Buffon; Birindelli (Boumsong 59), Zebina, Legrottaglie, Chiellini; Camoranesi (Marchionni 67), Marchisio, Giannichedda, Nedved; Trezeguet, Del Piero (Zalayeta 91) Genoa: Rubinho; Masiello, Stellini, Criscito; Juric, Milanetto (Galeoto 76), Botta (Coppola 41), Fabiano; Rossi (Leon 49), Gasparetto, Di Vaio

Vicenza 1-1 Rimini Schwoch 39 Moscardelli 87 (5,255) Moscardelli s/o 93 Ref: Velotto

Vicenza 1-1 Rimini Schwoch 39 Moscardelli 87 (5,255) (5,255) (5,255) Moscardelli s/o 93 Ref: Ref: Ref Velotto

Robert Acquafresca Club: Treviso Born: Turin, 11/9/87 Position: Striker Ht/Wt: 1.84m/67kg Serie A debut: TREVISO 0-1 Livorno, 11/9/05 Season Club Div Apps Gls 2004-05 Torino B - - 2005-06 Treviso A 8 2006-07 Treviso B 32 9

Robert Acquafresca Club: TrevisoClub: Treviso Born: Turin, 11/9/87 Position: Striker Ht/Wt: 1.84m/67kg Serie A debut: TREVISO 0-1 Livorno, 11/9/05TREVISO 0-1 Livorno, 11/9/05 Season Club Div Apps GlsSeason Club Div Apps GlsSeason Club Div Apps Gls 2004-05 Torino B - -2004-05 Torino B - -2004-05 Torino B - - 2005-06 Treviso A 8 -2005-06 Treviso A 8 -2005-06 Treviso A 8 -2005-06 Treviso A 8 2006-07 Treviso B 32 92006-07 Treviso B 32 92006-07 Treviso B 32 92006-07 Treviso B 32 9

Bari 0-1 Mantova Esposito s/o 85 Caridi pen 79 Vignaroli s/o 89 Franchini s/o 89 (5,330) Donazzan s/o 89 Ref: Romeo

Bari 0-1 Mantova Esposito s/o 85 Caridi pen 79 Vignaroli s/o 89 Franchini s/o 89 (5,330) (5,330) (5,330) Donazzan s/o 89 Ref: Romeo

Bologna 2-0 Verona Fantini 38 (8,865) Meghni 89 Ref: Mazzoleni

Bologna 2-0 Verona Fantini 38 (8,865) Meghni 89 Ref: MazzoleniRef: MazzoleniRef

Brescia 1-0 Lecce Hamsyk 38 (3,201) Ref: Pierpaoli

Brescia 1-0 Lecce Hamsyk 38 (3,201) Ref: Ref: Ref Pierpaoli

Cesena 2-2 Albinoleffe Papa Waigo 6, pen 22 Rabito 26 (6,175) Santos 48 Ref: Squillace Donadoni s/o 27

Cesena 2-2 Albinoleffe Papa Waigo 6, pen 22 Rabito 26 (6,175) (6,175) (6,175) Santos 48 Ref: Ref: Ref Squillace Donadoni s/o 27Squillace Donadoni s/o 27Squillace

Genoa striker Marco Di Vaio hails his goal against Juventus

Genoa striker Marco Di Vaio hails his goal against Juventus

TEAM OF THE MONTH

TEAM OF THE MONTH

MONTH

(Bologna)

( ( ((BolognaBolognaBolognaBologna(Bologna ((Bologna ((Bologna ((Bologna( ) )Bologna)BolognaBologna)Bologna

Caridi (Mantova)

CaridiCaridiCaridi ( ((MantovaMantovaMantova(Mantova( ) ) )Mantova)MantovaMantova)Mantova

Zanchetta (Lecce)

ZanchettaZanchettaZanchetta ((LecceLecceLecce(Lecce ((Lecce( ) ) )Lecce)LecceLecce)Lecce

Papa Waigo (Cesena)

Papa Papa Papa WaigoWaigoWaigo ( ((CesenaCesenaCesenaCesenaCesena(Cesena ((Cesena ((Cesena( ) ) )Cesena)CesenaCesena)Cesena

Aquilanti (Pescara)

AquilantiAquilanti (PescaraPescara(Pescara( ) ) )Pescara)PescaraPescara)Pescara

Coach of the Month: Antonio Conte (Arezzo)

Coach of the Month: Coach of the Month: Antonio Conte (Arezzo)Antonio Conte (Arezzo)

After another sparkling campaign, it’s little wonder that Jean-Franççois Gillet is being linked

After another sparkling campaign, it’s little wonder that Jean-Franççois Gillet is being linked with Lazio. The Belgian custodian is a fans’ favourite at Bari and cemented his reputation as a penalty king with a spot-kick save in Week 36. Young defensive prospect Daniele Capelli gets a mention this month. The 20-year-old stopper has not only been a rock at the back for Arezzo, but popped up against Verona to strike a vital blow in a relegation six-pointer. Giuseppe Caridi keeps his place in midfield and the cool-headed Calabrian continues to inspire Mantova’s play-off push with crucial assists and a steady stream of goals. Senegalese marksman Papa Waigo partners the irrepressible Claudio Bellucci and Antonio Floro Flores after taking his season tally to 15 goals with a tap-in against Juve and a Week 35 brace against Albinoleffe.

Robert Acquafresca has been impressive in Treviso’s attack, scoring his first ever hat-trick against Spezia in Week 20

Robert Acquafresca has been impressive in Treviso’s attack, scoring his first ever hat-trick against Spezia in Week 20

After another sparkling campaign, it’s little wonder that Jean-Franççois Gillet is being linked with Lazio. The Belgian custodian is a fans’ favourite at Bari and cemented his reputation as a penalty king with a spot-kick save in Week 36. Young defensive prospect Daniele Capelli gets a mention this month. The 20-year-old stopper has not only been a rock at the back for Arezzo, but popped up against Verona to strike a vital blow in a relegation six-pointer. Giuseppe Caridi keeps his place in midfield and the cool-headed Calabrian continues to inspire Mantova’s play-off push with crucial assists and a steady stream of goals. Senegalese marksman Papa Waigo partners the irrepressible Claudio Bellucci and Antonio Floro Flores after taking his season tally to 15 goals with a tap-in against Juve and a Week 35 brace against Albinoleffe.

BLTS FIXTURES SCORERS ATTENDANCES RESULTS FIXTURES

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