Del Piero keeps Juve in touch

An Alessandro Del Piero goal has kept Juventus breathing down Inter Milan's necks as the Turin giants grabbed a 1-0 victory over Genoa on Sunday. They now trail the reigning champions Inter by three points. Elsewhere, Fiorentina went 2nd with a 3-0 win over Siena.

Del Piero signed a new contract extension until 2010 earlier in the week and he settled the match as he netted with a crisp right foot volley from 6 yards out following a cross from Pavel Nedved.

The Czech midfielder was later sent off, though, after the final whistle for appearing to elbow Abdoulay Konko while coach Claudio Ranieri was also shown red for swearing at the match officials.

Elsewhere, Fiorentina have pushed themselves up to second with a 3-0 victory over Siena in the Tuscan derby. Pazzini, Mutu and veteran Christian Vieri grabbed the goals.

Coach Cesare Prandelli said afterward: "We got off to a good start, kept the team tight and avoided long balls. Giampaolo Pazzini plays with great determination and gave the side depth.

"Are we in the title race? We just want to keep up this kind of performance."