Alberto Gilardino guides Genoa past Parma

Genoa striker Alberto Gilardino has recovered from an early penalty miss to make the difference against Parma tonight, scoring the only goal in a win for the Grifone.

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Gilardino was presented with a chance to break the deadlock from the penalty spot just three minutes in, after Ionnais Fetfatzidis was hauled over in the box by Yohan Benalouane.

The veteran forward stepped up but had his effort saved by Antonio Mirante, hitting a low effort straight at the Parma goalkeeper.

Parma responded as Djamel Mesbah and Marco Parolo had shots parried, with the decisive moment of the match coming just before the hour mark.

Davide Biondini made the difference as his inviting cross was directed towards Gilardino, allowing the Azzurri international to atone for his error by heading into the top corner.

The visitors attempted to rally as Antonio Cassano and Walter Gargano produced late efforts on target, but Roberto Donadoni's men were left to rue missed chances as they left Genoa empty handed.