Cagliari ended their defeat to Lazio with nine men after a contentious penalty, but director Francesco Marroccu insisted “we respect the referee’s decision.”

Cagliari ended their defeat to Lazio with nine men after a contentious penalty, but director Francesco Marroccu insisted “we respect the referee’s decision.”

The Sardinians had taken the lead at the Stadio Olimpico this evening, but were beaten 2-1 after goalkeeper Michael Agazzi was sent off for the penalty incident and Andrea Cossu followed for dissent.

“Cagliari respect the referee’s decision. We always have respect for the officials and do not want to cause controversy,” insisted director general Marroccu after a sixth consecutive defeat.

“The season is long and gives us many more opportunities to catch up.”

Just days after Kevin-Prince Boateng walked off in protest during a Pro Patria-Milan friendly, play was almost halted this evening when Cagliari’s bench complained of racist chanting towards Victor Ibarbo.

The referee did stop for a few seconds to discuss the matter with the captains and order a warning message to be sent over the tannoy system.

“The monkey noises from the stands were becoming more insistent and I simply urged the referee to make the announcement for all the fans in the stadium.”

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