Fiorentina’s dismal season reached a new low on Sunday with an appalling home defeat at the hands of lowly Lecce.
David Di Michele’s second half penalty proved to be the difference between the sides, and it was all a bit too much for a section of the Viola’s long suffering support, with around 600 of them barricading the side in the dressing room after the full time whistle.
Amidst the chaos, several club officials were reportedly escorted from the ground by Police, as fans sought answers from club director Mario Cognigni.
On another day, the Viola may have been celebrating a routine victory. Riccardo Montolivo tested Lecce keeper Massimiliano Benassi from distance, whilst Adam Ljajic rounded Benassi in the box in superb style, but could just not find the finish the move deserved.
However, with Lecce coach Serse Cosmi mirroring the 3-5-2 formation that proved so effective for Delio Rossi during last week’s victory over Novara, the Puglian side performed a textbook smash and grab away victory, patiently awaiting the opportunity that arrived with Cesare Natali’s clumsy challenge on Luis Muriel.
After the game, Rossi shouldered the responsibility, but his words belied a sense of frustration at the predicament he finds himself in.
He said, “This match could have been the turning point for our campaign, but instead it went against us. It is my fault because I am at the head of this group. After last week’s Novara game, I kidded myself that we had turned the light back on, but instead I understand now it is going to be a season of blood and tears.”
The result leaves the side 13th in the table, with only a six point cushion separating them from the dreaded drop zone. Victory against Lecce would have seen them into ninth, and within touching distance of those sides chasing entry into next season’s Europa League; such are the fine margins of Serie A this season.
With just over two weeks remaining in the January transfer window, the club must move quickly to provide Rossi with a squad capable of turning the situation around, and a proven striker must be at the top of the shopping list.
Unfortunately, names currently being linked with a move to the Artemio Franchi are largely uninspiring. An approach for Arsenal’s Marouane Chamakh has been mooted, but the Moroccan has been hugely disappointing for the Gunners this season, scoring just once and losing his place to veteran Thierry Henry.
Deemed surplus to requirements by Antonio Conte, Juventus forward Amauri is another name linked with a move to Tuscany. Having not played since a reasonably successful loan spell with Parma during the second half of last season, it would be difficult to predict the impact the Brazilian would have.
With a trip to Cagliari and a home derby with Siena next on the agenda, there is still time to turn this flagging season into something other than a complete write-off, but a drastic improvement is needed for that to happen. Perhaps this weekend’s supporter revolt will provoke a much needed reaction.
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