Cesare Prandelli lauded Fiorentina for “the right attitude,” but Edy Reja feels Napoli “gave their heart and soul tonight.”
The 2-1 victory at the Stadio Franchi ended the Viola’s run of three consecutive defeats and a week of tension.
“I must compliment my team, because they had the right attitude, which was not easy after last Saturday’s loss to Juventus,” said
Prandelli of that controversial match.
“As for the issue with the referees, let’s just say that from now on we will turn over a new leaf and not touch this debate any more.
“We did well to put the referee in the right frame of mind to officiate without too much pressure tonight.”
Sebastien Frey’s howler let in Napoli’s equaliser, but Prandelli stood up for his embarrassed goalkeeper.
“These things happen. We could have lost confidence at that point, but we kept our heads and pushed for an important victory.
“We have to start thinking that every game is like this – difficult, but with so much hunger to do well.”
Napoli have lost their last six consecutive away matches in Serie A and this defeat comes after a 3-0 home drubbing at the hands of Roma.
“What I was really interested in was rediscovering the right team spirit,” mused Reja.
“We did well in defence, but were missing something upfront. We fought for every ball, giving our heart and soul, but this is a time where
we are just so unlucky.
“We were missing two goalkeepers, the third got injured and we had to play an 18-year-old. He did well, despite [Riccardo] Montolivo’s
goal.
“When we play with great intensity, then we put in wonderful performances. We’re lacking some sharpness at the moment, but don’t worry, we