Lecce vs Palermo Preview: Rossi boys in good heart

If Palermo can begin to replicate their form at home on the road starting at Lecce, the Sicilian club will contend for a spot in next season's Champions League.

Juventus were the latest victims of Palermo at La Favorita in midweek, falling 2-1.

The victory was Palermo's seventh home success in a row in Serie A and moved Delio Rossi's men into sixth in the table, level on 37 points with Udinese.

Away from home, Palermo have not taken all three points since a 2-1 triumph over Cesena on November 21.

"It was an important win for us," said Palermo coach Rossi of the victory over Juventus.

"My players were tired against Juve but nevertheless managed to show great character and determination to collect three points.

"The victory was a big morale boost for my players in view of our game at Lecce."

Lecce, meanwhile, are feeling much better about their chances of survival after Wednesday's 1-0 victory at Parma.

Ernesto Chevanton headed in an injury-time winner to lift the Giallorossi into 16th place - three points clear of the drop zone.

The result was all the more gratifying for coach Luigi De Canio as it marked the first time since October 3 that Lecce had kept a clean sheet.

"I have to praise my players because they did a really good job in Parma," said De Canio.

"They never gave up and in the end were rewarded.

"I hope my players show the same hunger and character when we take on Palermo on Sunday."

Lecce, who have not won at the Via del Mare stadium since December 12, will be without strikers David Di Michele and Edward Ofere, both sidelined through injury.

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