POTENZA – Potenza managed to secure a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory against Messina, showcasing their resilience and desire to climb the Serie C standings. The last match of 2024 and the first of the second half of the season took place at the iconic Stadio Viviani, captivating the attention of local football fans.
The encounter started brightly for Messina, who were aiming to escape from the lower regions of the league table. Just 14 minutes past the kickoff, Petrungaro netted the opening goal with a precise shot after some early pressure: it seemed like the visitors had taken control. With several missed chances from both sides, especially from Frisenna of Messina, the first half ended with Potenza struggling to break through and trailing at 0-1.
Potenza, under the guidance of coach Pietro De Giorgio, made some tactical adjustments during the halftime interval, determined not to end the year on a losing note. Resuming play, they ramped up the pressure. It was on the 66th minute when Rosafio scored from the edge of the box, benefitting from a deflection off Manetta, leveling the game at 1-1. This goal ignited the home crowd and shifted the momentum firmly back to Potenza’s favor.
While the Messina players were still reeling from the equalizer, they were soon dealt another blow. Just ten minutes later, Castorani scored the second goal, converting from close range after great work on the right flank by Schimmenti. With the score now 2-1, the coaching staff of Messina could hardly contain their frustration as Modica was shown a red card for his protests concerning the preceding play.
The tension escalated as Messina's frustrations grew, unable to capitalize on their initial momentum. The visitors had their opportunities, but Alastra, Potenza's goalkeeper, remained vigilant, thwarting efforts from Anatriello and allowing only one goal against what could have been more.
Despite their earlier dominance, the second half marked the third successive defeat for Messina, leaving them on the bottom of the table with only 16 points this season. Potenza’s victory not only lifted them to 35 points but also propelled them to third place, surprising fans who had perhaps set lower expectations at the season's start.
The attendance figure for this exciting clash stood at 2,979, translating to match proceeds of 29,617.27 euros—a decent turnout for the club. The stakes were high for both sides, with Potenza continuing their winning streak, marking their third consecutive win, and Messina left to contemplate their position as their challenges intensified.
Potenza's fans left the ground with high spirits, celebrating their team's capitulation over Messina and their hopes of success as they prepared for the next round of fixtures. The game reflected not just the ambitions of both teams, but also the unpredictable nature of football, where script can turn on its head within minutes.
Such dazzling displays, especially the ten-minute resurgence witnessed by Potenza, signal their growing prowess. With the league progressing, the question now remains: can Potenza maintain this momentum and continue to climb, or will the pressure from behind stifle their ambitions? For Messina, it's back to the drawing board as they look to rectify their dwindling season before it slips out of hand.
