Juve Stabia made a sensational comeback in Fondi, turning the score around in the final 15 minutes thanks to a brace from Simeri, making up for Branduani's blunder and Viola's shocking own goal that had undeservedly given the home side the lead in the first half.
Overall, the match was balanced and at times spectacular, with numerous scoring opportunities on both sides, with Mastalli hitting the post for Juve Stabia and two crossbars for Fondi. Juve Stabia wanted the win, and they got it after finding themselves a goal down in the first half after a double error on a corner kick by Quaini in the 19th minute. Branduani missed the ball, and Viola, attempting to stop the ball, put it in the net. Juve Stabia tried to equalize with Strefezza, who came close to scoring twice (in the 31st and 37th minutes), and Paponi (in the 41st minute), but the attackers were imprecise. The second half was a veritable siege by the Wasps, who started with a bang, but goalkeeper Elezaj performed miracles on several occasions, including a Mastalli overhead kick in the 60th minute after a superb slalom by Paponi. Simeri came on in the 74th minute to replace Mastalli, who changed the game's momentum. The Neapolitan striker leveled the score six minutes later with a half-volley that Elezaj could do nothing about. Racing reignited with a double crossbar hit by Vasco (38') and Corvia (43'), but Simeri emerged as the true protagonist of the match, doubling the Wasps' lead right on the ninety-second mark. Following a brilliant cross from Melara, Simeri headed in the decisive goal. The five minutes of injury time granted by referee Zingarelli of Siena were in vain. Juve Stabia has achieved its first victory of 2018.
Article published on February 11, 2018 - 16:42 AM - Editorial Staff
