Reja Rues Napoli Slow Start Against Inter

Napoli fell to their fourth defeat of the season against Inter, their second reverse in the last three games.

"We did very good today, particularly in the second half," Edy Reja stated after the encounter.

"Unfortunately, we were only able to react after their two great goals, [Ezequiel] Lavezzi and [Marcelo] Zalayeta combined brilliantly to pull one back, and we tried to push for an equalizer until the end to no avail."

The Vesuviani controlled the game for long spells during the second period, but rarely managed to trouble goalkeeper Julio Cesar. However, El Pocho was booked for allegedly diving in the penalty area toward the end of the clash, as Ivan Cordoba seemed to push him from behind.

"I don't know if that was a spot-kick," he admitted, "Lavezzi has told me that he felt a push and he is usually a correct player. I think the ref made the right decision, but the booking was probably too heavy a punishment."

The Friulan tactician made a few unexpected changes to the line-up, as Manuele Blasi made way for Michele Pazienza and stopper Leandro Rinaudo got the nod in central defense ahead of Italy defender Fabiano Santacroce.

"I reckon that Blasi is similar to Gargano, so I opted to field Pazienza who can give us more balance in midfield," replied the boss.

The Campani have now faced the Interisti, Juventus and Milan in Serie A, but who are the stongest side?

"I feel that Inter have an incredible squad that no other team can boast, they have character and experience, and I believe they will comfortably win the Scudetto," he concluded.

Vince Masiello