Super Mario saves Milan again

Since his arrival in Milan, Mario Balotelli has become arguably the San Siro outfit's most important player and he once again saved them from defeat this weekend.

Victor Ibarbo has put Cagliari ahead on the stroke of half-time before Balotelli leveled with a penalty after Davide Astori was dismissed for the home side.

Despite a late goal surge from Cagliari, the Rossoneri held on to a 1-1 draw to keep them fourth, 15 points off leaders Juventus.

Elsewhere, Aurelio Adreazolli started life on the Roma bench with a defeat as his side were beaten 3-1 by Sampdoria.

Andreazolli who was placed in charge following the dismissal of Zdenek Zeman earlier in the week was instantly thrown in the deep end as his side struggled against Samp.

Marcelo Estigarribia gave the home side the lead before Gianluca Sansone doubled the advantage.

Roma's Pablo Osvaldo missed a penalty and Erik Lamela had a goal ruled out but the youngster did reduce the deficit, only for Mauro Icardi to seal the win.

Meanwhile, Udinese beat Torino 1-0, Siena drew 1-1 with Bologna and Genoa held Parma to a goalless draw.

image: © drabikpany

Ben Crump

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Founder of Inside Spanish Football and Freelance European Football Writer, previously worked for Goal.com, Forza Italian Football, Shoot Magazine. Youth Football Coach and dedicated husband and father!