Bari vs Catania preview - Catania aim to end away hoodoo at Bari
Posted Sunday, April 10, 2011 by PA
A revitalised Catania face bottom side Bari looking to take a big step towards retaining their Serie A status.
Ahead of Sunday's encounter at the San Nicola stadium, Catania have 35 points in the bank as the season enters its final seven weeks.
Last weekend's 4-0 thrashing of Palermo marked Catania's fourth consecutive home victory.
The result allowed Diego Simeone's side to climb five points clear of the danger zone.
After a slow start to the year, Catania are beginning to find their touch at the right time, much to the relief of Simeone.
"Earlier this year we lost games but we have been able to find the right path," he said.
"I think the merit of Catania has been to find some continuity in results of late, and this in the end pays off.
"We are in good condition and collecting important results."
Catania travel to the mainland looking for their first win on the road in 14 months.
With the Sicilians due to face Lazio, Juventus, Roma and Inter Milan in their remaining games, Simeone knows the importance of Sunday's encounter.
"We have to beat Bari," said Simeone. "We must show the same determination that we display in Catania away from home.
"So far, we have failed to do so, but on Sunday we have an opportunity to take a big step towards survival."
Bari, meanwhile, remain rooted at the bottom of the table, 11 points behind safety.
Last weekend's 2-1 triumph at Parma was their first win since January 6.
Bari coach Bortolo Mutti has urged his players not to give up hope just yet with 21 points still up for grabs.
"We have to believe in ourselves," he said. "We played a good game at Parma and I'm confident we will do well in our remaining games."
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