Lippi Shrugs Off Controversy As Juve Hit The Top
TURIN, Italy, Sept 16 (AFP)
Juventus coach Marcello Lippi Saturday evening denied that referees were helping his Italian first division table-toppers after a 3-2 home victory over Chievo left the Turin side with the only 100 percent record in Italy's first division.
Chievo had taken a 2-0 lead before Juve came back to grab the points but questionable refereeing played its part, notably with the award of the match-winning penalty which was converted by Chilean Marcelo Salas.
"I think there is not controversy over our victory," said Lippi. "I don't want to comment on the refereeing. I don't think there is any shadow on any of our three victories this season."
Lippi is back at the helm at Juventus, replacing Carlo Ancelotti last June and is hoping to bring back the glory days to the Stadio Delle Alpi.
In his previous stint in charge he made Juve the top club in the country, leading them also to victory in the European Cup and the Intercontinental Cup.
However, there is an ongoing judicial case into alleged doping and bribery of referees during that era although there is no suggestion that Lippi himself was involved.
Lippi was magnanimous in victory to Chievo, the tiny newly-promoted side from Verona that had been the only other team in the top flight to boast maximum points until Saturday night's setback.
"Compliments to the opponents," said Lippi. "They took us on with personality, physical strength and without fear. But congratulations too to Juventus who played a great game and also created seven or eight excellent chances."
Chievo coach Luigi del Neri said: "I have promised I will not criticise refereeing decisions."
But club captain Eugenio Corini was less diplomatic, saying: "To blow a whistle instinctively for a presumed foul is absurd. Apart from the fact Salas was offside I don't want to think the fact that we are new in Serie A is counting against us. It's a pity because we showed we deserved at least a draw."
