Petkovic delighted with Lazio fightback

Jan 6, 2013 2:10:00 AM

The Bosnian diverted focus from his side's controversial spot-kick, to the fact the Biancocelesti came from behind to keep the pressure on at the top of Serie A

Lazio coach Vladimir Petkovic praised his team for clinching a hard-fought 2-1 victory over nine-man Cagliari on Saturday amidst controversy, as the Olimpico outfit continued to keep pace with Juventus at the top of the table.

Marco Sau gifted the Sardinians the lead against the run of play, but Abdoullay Konko and Antonio Candreva, who scored the winner via a debatable penalty after goalkeeper Michael Gazzi and Andrea Cossu were sent off , ensured all three points went Lazio's way.

"The players always believe they can do it," the trainer told reporters after the match. "There was great character on display, fighting back to turn the result around.

"I couldn't see the penalty incident, but it did seem that there was contact. What mattered anyway is that we remained united and created a great deal."

Lazio remain in second place, five points adrift of Juventus who play Sampdoria on Sunday.