Genoa back in the big time

Ten years after they were relegated to Serie B, Genoa 1893 finally returned to the Italian top flight on Saturday after defeating AC Venezia 3-2 in front of 37,000 on the last day of the season. The result meant Genoa finished first in Serie B, overtaking already promoted Empoli FC, who lost 4-1 against AS Bari, to clinch the title.

'Fantastic fans'
"We were too nervous tonight and we could not manage to do anything," Genoa coach Serse Cosmi said. "However I think we really deserved to win the Serie B title. In 42 games we proved to have everything that was necessary to return to Serie A. Now I just want to celebrate together with the players, with our fantastic fans, with the whole town. I will meet the president to discuss my future. I really hope to stay."

Genoa derby
Genoa, are one of the oldest Italian clubs and have won the Scudetto nine times, including five of the first six. Their promotion ensures that one of Italy's most famous derbies, 'Il derby della Lanterna', can resume next season against city rivas UC Sampdoria. The final promotion place will be decided after a series of play-offs later this month between AC Perugia, Torino Calcio, Treviso FC and Ascoli Calcio.