Sampdoria edge Genoa derby

Sampdoria made the most of a dominant first-half performance to claim victory against local rivals Genoa in the 105th Derby della Lanterna.

© AP Photos

The home side began brightly in a battle between struggling sides and opened the scoring after 16 minutes when Enzo Maresca's shot deflected into the path of Andrea Poli to slot home from 12 yards.

Ciro Ferrara's side doubled their advantage before the break in opportunistic fashion.

© AP Photos

A tame shot from Mauro Icardi was saved by Sebastian Frey but his parry came off Genoa defender Cesare Bovo's shin and into the net.

Genoa found a lifeline late on when Ciro Immobile's quick reactions earned the striker a poacher's goal in a packed penalty area with 15 minutes to play.

The visitors poured forward in search of an equaliser but were undone in the closing stages when Icardi put the result beyond doubt with a simple finish.