Chievo 0 : 1 Torino - Torino strengthen Europa prospects

Gennaro Sardo's own goal handed Torino a narrow 1-0 victory at 10-man Chievo on Sunday to move the Granata closer to Europa League football next season.

The luckless defender turned a Torino corner kick in the 54th minute past goalkeeper Michael Agazzi and into his own net.

Chievo's hopes of finding an equaliser were hindered when substitute striker Sergio Pellissier was sent off for dissent with 24 minutes remaining.

Toro held on for a victory that has kept them in sixth place with two Serie A games left.

Chievo, meanwhile, lie 16th in the standings, two points clear of the drop zone.

The hosts dominated the early possession and had a chance to break the deadlock in the fourth minute.

Ivan Radovanovic's free-kick forced a good save from Torino goalkeeper Daniele Padelli.

At the other end, Alessio Cerci's long-range attempt was kept out by Agazzi. Chievo striker Alberto Paloschi twice had the opportunity to put the hosts ahead before half-time.

His powerful header from Cyril Thereau's cross went over the crossbar while shortly after, his right-footed shot from the edge of the box went inches wide of the far post.

The visitors showed more determination after the break and almost went in front when Jasmin Kurtic's 30-yard attempt forced Agazzi to fully stretch to clear.

Toro then went in front when Sardo turned the ball into his own net from a corner from the right.

After losing Pellissier, who had only entered the match five minutes earlier, Chievo struggled to create chances.

Torino held on for their fifth win in their last six league games. The top six teams qualify for European football next season.