Parma and Inter Milan have played out a goalless first half in their Serie A encounter this afternoon, with the hosts missing a late penalty.

Parma could have found the lead early on had it not been for Samir Handanovic, who pulled off a standout save to stop Antonio Cassano's bullet header from flying into the back of the net.

Cassano threatened again minutes later when he produced a run to get on to Cristian Molinaro's through-ball, but couldn't find the finish despite a good first touch as he sliced the ball wide of goal.

Inter almost hit back through Mauro Icardi, who was able to get on the end of a corner from Hernanes, but the Argentine striker could only guide the ball wide of the post.

Rodrigo Palacio showed some fine skill just before the break to produce a dipping volley that tested Antonio Mirante, before Cassano saw a penalty saved by Handanovic on the stroke of half time.