Maistrello scores and rescues late point in Bari

It took Tommy Maistrello just two minutes from coming off the bench to make an impact in Cittadella’s 1-1 draw against Bari.

The point for the Granata is a golden one as they enter the homestretch of the Serie B season. Safety from relegation is in their hands as three games remain in the league.

Edoardo Gorini will be pleased by the way his team preformed at the Stadio San Nicola. Controlling more possession than the hosts, the Granata had the better of opportunities in the first half, coming close from numerous chances.

Bari nearly opened the scoring in the final seconds of the first half, when Leonardo Benedetti’s header shook the frame of the goal following a lengthy cross from Walid Cheddira.

Shortly after the halftime break, Benedetti would not be denied a second time as Bari found the breakthrough. The midfielder’s near post header flicked into the back post from Nicola Bellomo’s corner.

Desperate for a goal, Cittadella searched again for an equalizer. Andrea Magrassi nearly got it in the 65th minute, when an awkward deflected shot almost sailed into the far side. Minutes later, substitute Carlos Embalo struck the post from a long range bullet.

There was an appeal that the Granata should’ve been awarded a penalty with ten minutes to go, as Mirko Antonucci appeared to have been stepped on inside the box by Cheddira. Referee Davide Massa was not interested, as the match continued.

But only a few minutes later it wouldn’t matter, because Cittadella found their goal through Tommy Maistrello. The striker, who was on the field for a matter of seconds, tapped in a rebound in front of goal after Bari keeper Elia Caprile made the save.

It’s undoubtedly a massive point for Cittadella as they fight for safety in the division. Tied on 38 points alongside Brescia and Cosenza, the Granata now prepare for a must-win game at home against relegation rivals Benevento on Saturday.

Top Photo: AS Cittadella