A quick-fire double in the last four minutes of the first half proved decisive as Inter U23 made the perfect start to the season with a thrilling 2-1 away victory over Catania.
The Nerazzurri claimed a solid display, producing a composed performance after the break to secure their first three points of the season. A bright end to the first half followed by a composed performance after the break was exactly what Vecchi's side needed to take home the win.
Inter started cautiously, with Catania taking the initiative in the opening stages and threatening Melgrati's goal. The first scare came from a corner when Kaczmarski made a crucial goal-line clearance. However, it was Mosconi and Lavelli who provided the spark Inter needed, combining for the Nerazzurri's first attempt on goal.
A close-range effort from Lavelli was deflected behind, but the momentum was building for Inter. Marello delivered a perfect corner, and Maye timed his run superbly to get the decisive touch, scoring Inter's opener in the 39th minute. Vecchi's side rode the momentum and continued to attack, creating the chance to double their advantage just a few minutes later.
A quick move ended with Marello having a shot, and Lavelli pounced on the rebound after Rinaldi's save before being caught by Jiménez. The referee initially waved play on, but the Nerazzurri bench used their card to request an FVS review. After a lengthy check, a penalty was awarded, and Mosconi coolly converted with his left foot in stoppage time.
Catania responded to the setback by making three changes at the break, with Bruzzaniti and Raimo introduced on the flanks and Russo leading the line. Russo created the first danger of the second half, forcing Melgrati to dive to his right to make the save. Inter dropped deeper and looked to break on the counter, making use of Kaczmarski's bursts forward.
However, Catania pulled one back through Russo in the 65th minute, heading home Cicerelli's free-kick. The Massimino came alive, but Inter remained calm and composed, dealing with Catania's attacks in an organised manner. Melgrati remained alert when called upon, while the Nerazzurri came within a whisker of a third on another counter led by Kaczmarski.
Vecchi's side gave Catania no further openings and Agbonifo went close to putting the game to bed late on. There was still time for two more cards to be used in stoppage time, one by each side, but neither review changed the decisions on the pitch. It finished 2-1 to Inter, who started their season on the right foot.
The win marks an impressive start to the season for Vecchi's side, and they will be looking to build on this momentum in their next match. With the victory, Inter U23 have set themselves up for a strong campaign, and it will be interesting to see how they continue to perform in the coming weeks.
Source: Yahoo Sports