Empoli secured a vital 3-1 victory over relegation rivals Salernitana, moving three points clear of the drop zone and leaving Filippo Inzaghi’s men rooted to the bottom of the table.
Davide Nicola returned to his former stomping ground as Empoli’s new manager and got instant revenge on his old club. Nicolò Cambiaghi’s wicked cross deflected in off an unfortunate Salernitana defender for an early own goal.
Both sides had chances to add to the scoreline before the break, with Alberto Cerri and Boulaye Dia coming close. Grigoris Kastanos nearly brought Salernitana level with a thunderous volley, but Empoli goalkeeper Elia Caprile kept it out.
READ MORE: Salernitana vs Empoli: Preview and talking points
The second half started cagey, but Liberato Cacace’s effort was the closest either side came to breaking the deadlock. Debutant Shon Weissman thought he had grabbed a point for Salernitana, heading in Antonio Candreva’s superb cross, but Empoli had the final say.
A penalty converted by Mbaye Niang and a late strike from Matteo Cancellieri sealed the victory for Empoli, leaving Salernitana in despair.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings