Prato defeated by Progresso: fifth consecutive defeat at Lungobisenzio

Prato ends the season at Lungobisenzio in the worst possible way, that is, with the fifth consecutive home defeat. This time the one celebrating in via Firenze is the Progress, which won 2-0. The decisive goals, both in the second half, were scored by Maltoni e Pinelli (penalty). Another disappointment for the white and blue colors, who are unable to greet the few spectators present (Curva Ferrovia Matteo 27 empty again due to the strike of the ultras, in protest against the president Stefano Commini) with a positive result. In six days the last effort of a disappointing season on the Fiorenzuola field.

Coming to the match report, just one minute has passed since the kick-off and Girgi wastes a great opportunity, when he fails to hit Innocenti's cross. After this immediate jolt, the match slips away without much excitement, with the two goalkeepers essentially inactive. In the 34th minute, however, Cheli risks making a mess: the Bologna goalkeeper lets Girgi's high cross slip, the ball then becomes good for Pereira, who with an empty net is sensationally blocked by Cestaro. Five minutes later, Innocenti comes close to taking the lead with a header, just wide, following a corner kick taken by Di Stefano. The first half ends 0-0. The second half is inaugurated by Girgi's header, served by Limberti, which ends up on the outside of the net.

But at the 50th minute, here comes the cold shower for Prato: Maltoni wins a series of rebounds, then turns and from the edge of the area unleashes a left-footed shot that pierces Gariti. The reaction of the lanieri is in a melee - culminating in an attempt by Limberti swatted away by Cheli - thwarted by the visiting defence. Mariotti runs for cover and brings on Giusti, Remedi, Magazzù and Cozzari. But in the 73rd minute Di Stefano makes an unforgivable mistake, stumbling on the ball in the middle of the field and launching the counterattack of Progresso, with Maltoni - freed by Bellisi - brought down in the area by the same white and blue number 24. The referee Fresu whistles for a penalty and from the spot Pinelli doubles. With the strength of desperation, the Prato team launches forward and is also unlucky when, on Cheli's wrong exit, Mele saves Iuliano's sure-fire shot, while Cozzari's subsequent shot fails to hit the target.

After 4 minutes of recovery it is the Progress to rejoice for the salvation achieved. And for the Prato it's late at night Lungobisenzio.

Francesco Bocchini