Lecce sent a message to Milan, VAR and the Serie A referees by giving Roberto Piccoli the award for Goal of the Season – even though it was controversially disallowed.
The striker thought he had completed the incredible comeback from 2-0 down to win 3-2 with the last kick of the game at the Stadio Via del Mare after Olivier Giroud had been sent off.
However, VAR recalled the referee to view footage of Piccoli treading on Malick Thiaw’s foot, giving him the space to control the ball and score past Mike Maignan.
It was disallowed and Lecce did not disguise their utter fury at the decision.
The club held its annual Christmas dinner this evening and sent a rather cheeky message to the officials by giving the Goal of the Year award to Piccoli for that disallowed strike.
At least it will be remembered with some positive associations after this party atmosphere and not just as a bitter disappointment.