10-man Atalanta hold Sampdoria

Atalanta have survived a late onslaught from Sampdoria to earn a battling point in Serie A this afternoon.

© AP Photos

Sampdoria went close in the first few minutes as Pedro Obiang drove inches wide from distance.

The home side responded and spurned a gilt-edged chance when Giacomo Bonaventura headed just past the post from close range.

German Denis then forced Sergio Romero to save his strong shot from 12 yards as both sides struggled to break the deadlock.

Sampdoria took control after the interval but were unable to find the opener, despite best efforts of Nenad Krsticic from distance.

Atalanta were reduced to 10 men in the closing stages as Stefano Lucchini picked up his second booking for a mistimed lunge.

The visitors were unable to take advantage and had to settle for a 0-0 draw against their mid-table rivals.