Cesena boosted their hopes of avoiding relegation from Serie A this season by picking up a vital three points in a 2-1 win over Lazio.
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Following a goalless first half, Franco Brienza came close to giving Cesena the lead just shy of the hour mark when his low free kick was pushed onto the post by Federico Marchetti.
The hosts took the lead moments later as Gregoire Defrel picked up the ball around 25 yards out from goal before firing a strike into the top corner that left the keeper helpless.
Defrel had another chance to score for the strugglers with an effort from the edge of the box, but this time Marchetti was able to push the strike behind.
Defrel was involved in all of Cesena's best moves and he played a huge part in their second goal when he burst to the byline to drive in a dangerous cross that was turned into his own net by Danilo Cataldi.
With three minutes of the match left to play, Lazio pulled a goal back through Miroslav Klose, who latched onto a poor clearance on the edge of the box before firing a low strike into the corner.
Despite six minutes of injury time, the visitors were unable to find an equaliser as Cesena picked up only their third league victory of the season.
Alex Meyers
