Fiorentina Held to Draw by Lecce Squandering Key Chance to Clinch Serie A Survival

The first 20 minutes of the opening period proved uneventful with the sole highlight being Walid Cheddira's header from a set piece which Nicolo Fagioli cleared off the line with composure.

Although genuine opportunities remained scarce the Salentini displayed greater intent in the attacking areas compared to their rivals with each point crucial for the home side at this juncture.

That said Fiorentina grew stronger as the half wore on and it was they who took the lead around the 30-minute mark when Jack Harrison latched onto a clever through ball from Rolando Mandragora before bending his effort beyond Wladimiro Falcone from 12 yards.

The away team nearly extended their lead soon afterwards as Roberto Piccoli directed the ball just wide from near range with a delicate touch after a superb delivery into the area from Dodo.

During the break Lecce reflected on their persistent issue throughout the campaign a shortage of potency in attack exemplified by Oumar Ngom's weak effort from a favourable spot right before the interval.

The home team's irritation persisted after the restart as the Salentini often reached promising areas yet their last ball consistently faltered.

David de Gea was at last called upon with 20 minutes remaining when he diverted the ball past the upright to deny Lameck Banda an equaliser.

But from the ensuing corner Lecce's luck shifted with Antonino Gallo's cross from the right flank finding the unattended Tiago Gabriel who slotted home to ignite the local supporters.

The hosts pressed relentlessly in search of a last-gasp victory but time elapsed without reward as replacement Nikola Stulic squandered a clear-cut chance enabling Paolo Vanoli's team to hold firm and secure a share of the spoils away.

With only five fixtures remaining in Serie A the 18th-placed Lecce urgently require a victory and aim to secure one on Saturday during their trip to Hellas Verona.

Conversely La Viola remain in 15th but their ongoing six-game unbeaten run in the division positions them close to guaranteeing their top-flight place for the upcoming term.