McTominay brace earns Napoli vital draw against Serie A frontrunners Inter
Scott McTominay helped Napoli stay competitive with Serie A frontrunners Inter Milan by netting twice during Sundays captivating 2-2 stalemate at the San Siro, following AC Milans 1-1 draw against Fiorentina.
The Scottish midfielder levelled the scores on two occasions, ensuring the defending champions remain four points adrift of Inter, who appeared poised to extend their lead to five points over second placed Milan after Hakan Calhanoglus penalty in the 73rd minute put them ahead.
Rather, Inter hold a three point advantage over their city rivals, while Roma occupy fourth spot, matching Napoli on 39 points.
Calhanoglus penalty, which he smashed against the post before beating expert shot stopper Vanja Milinkovic Savic, looked like the game changer as Inter gained momentum and Napoli grew frustrated.
The penalty was given after Amir Rrahmani trod on Henrikh Mkhitaryans foot, prompting Antonio Conte to erupt in fury from the sidelines, resulting in his dismissal for berating the referees and branding the call a scandal.
However, with nine minutes left, McTominay, who had earlier nullified Federico Dimarcos stunning initial strike in the first half, smartly volleyed in his fifth Serie A goal this term from Noa Langs lofted delivery, securing a hard earned share of the spoils for Napoli.
Milan held by Fiorentina
Christopher Nkunku rifled in Milans equaliser in the 90th minute at the Stadio Artemio Franchi, robbing Fiorentina of only their third victory in a challenging campaign.
Fiorentina seemed destined for the win after Pietro Comuzzos headed goal in the 66th minute, yet Nkunkus last ditch effort leaves the Tuscan side on 14 points in 18th position.
The home team nearly snatched all three points in added time, as new recruit Marco Brescianini struck the crossbar from near range and Milan keeper Mike Maignan had to react quickly to block Moise Kean from scoring the decider at his feet.
We performed strongly in the opening period and generated numerous opportunities that we could not finish, Milan manager Massimiliano Allegri told DAZN.
We are in second place in the standings and must maintain that, but we also have to sharpen our finishing when controlling the game.
Fiorentina trail Genoa by two points, with the latter just above the drop zone, and they face Cagliari at home on Monday night.
Under Paolo Vanoli, the squad appears to be improving, with just one loss in their previous five outings, and supporters have returned to backing the team after earlier unrest over poor form and internal disarray.
Fans gave Fiorentina a warm reception as they left the pitch following their second consecutive late concession, having lost a dramatic Pedro spot kick victory to Lazio in midweek.