Frosinone President Maurizio Stirpe admits they failed in ‘the most important game of our history’ after defeat to Udinese and relegation into Serie B.
Once again, the Canarini climbed up into the top flight only to drop straight back down again a year later.
They had gone into the weekend in the strongest position of the three teams, but a 1-0 home loss to Udinese and Empoli’s stoppage-time win over Roma turned the situation on its head.
“This was the most important game of our history and unfortunately we were unable to make the most of the chances that we created,” Stirpe told Sky Sport Italia.
“As is often the case, when you waste opportunities, you are punished. This is football. We’ve experienced joy and disappointment, this is a very bitter evening, but one we must accept.”
Frosinone players and coach distraught
Coach Eusebio Di Francesco was distraught at the final whistle and had to be consoled by Udinese boss Fabio Cannavaro and assistant Paolo Cannavaro.
The Frosinone players were also in tears, particularly captain Luca Mazzitelli, thinking back on the bad luck that saw them rattle the woodwork twice this evening.
However, some of the ultras were chanting insults at them after the final whistle. Was that overly harsh?
“I am sad for the lads, they deserved better luck. As for the fans, they are always the real ‘owners’ of the club. Just as we enjoy their compliments when things go well, it is only right that we also accept their criticism.”
Frosinone are one of the best-run clubs in Italy and one of the few with their own stadium.
“We knew that relegation could be on our path, but we always worked carefully and will not be unprepared for Serie B,” continued Stirpe.
“It will take a few weeks for us to absorb all this, which is even more bitter considering the way it came about. We are a solid club and will start again, trying to write more pages in the history of football.
“We knew that playing a certain way included risks, as young players can give you a great deal, but also make mistakes, as is their right. That was the project we wanted and we take all responsibility. I have no regrets about choosing Di Francesco.
“It is sad, but we tip our hats to our opponents and start again.”
Frosinone go down to Serie B along with Sassuolo and Salernitana.
Always sad for any club and their fans when they get relegated. Good luck to them all in the future.