Fortune falls Genoa's way

Fortune fell Genoa's way as they narrowly defeated Cagliari 1-0 in Sardinia with a late goal by Rubén Olivera. To no surprise Massimiliano Allegri’s Cagliari force put forth a compelling side and if truth be told, the victory should not be hailed in a celebratory manner as the hosts were certainly deserving of sharing points.

After fifteen minutes Genoa came within a whisper of scoring as Boško Janković provided Diego Milito a high probability opportunity but the final touch went askew. Following that chance each side showed extraordinary discipline and true scoring chances were minimal at best. However the match took a dramatic turn as six minutes before the hour the Sardinian side would be forced to play a man down when Andrea Cossu received his second yellow card six minutes before the break in a very dubious call. The Rossoblu struggling attack lacked not only intent but any sort of tactical plan as Cagliari easily handed their advances and create those of their own. Slowly momentum shifted and Genoa found its way through the top Sardinian defending unit. After a series of heroic saves by the hosts 'keeper Federico Marchetti, Genoa found a morsel of magic with five minutes remaining as Raffaele Palladino sent a cross that Rubén Olivera headed in to claim the 1-0 lead. A late effort by the hosts came close but only close and Genoa left the beautiful island of Sardinia  with the victory.

With the victory Genoa climbs to fourth place in the table and waits for Udinese next Saturday.