Lega Pro Focus

My focus on the lower divisions continues today during the International break as I take a look at the Lega Pro, specifically Lega Pro 1A and 1B. For those that are unfamiliar, this division is the one below Serie B. Like any league set up in Europe within the bowls of this division are some famous clubs, clubs that have influenced and indeed even won Scudetto's.

Lega Pro 1A
Perhaps the most famous name, from recent memory at least, in this division is Perugia. That club holds huge significance for me as a Laziale, as there home stadium in May 2000 was where Juventus were beaten on the final day by Perugia, and pouring rain, by 1-0 to leave Lazio top of the table and thus Champions. Currently, Perugia have slipped down two divisions and have only won 1 of their 3 opening games. Another side that have sampled the bright lights of Serie A is Cremonese, and they have started well this season winning 2 out of their 3 games so far this campaign, falling only to their first defeat to Sorrento in the last round. Well, if you are to lose anywhere it may as well be in one of the most beautiful places in Italy. Top of the pile are Novara, a side I know little about but with three wins on the board out of three they look to be going places this season.


Lega Pro 1B
This division contains a number of teams that have fallen from grace in the last decade or so. Hellas Verona have started well, and it would be nice to see the 1985 Scudetto winners get back into at least Serie B this season. Their fans have remained faithful, they still average around 15,000 fans every week in the third division. In mant cases, this is more than Chievo Verona do in the top flight. Hellas remain unbeaten with a win and two draws. Foggia, the former stomping ground of Guiseppe Signori are also in this division and have mirrored the start of Hellas Verona as this former Serie A club looks to at least get into Serie B. Pescara, another side familiar with Serie A also have started well with one win and two draws, but it is Ternana that have done the best. They sit top of the table with three wins from three as they get an early grip on the Division. Its going to be a long and interesting season in the Lega Pro, can any of the former top division sides make a comeback to the respectable pastures of Serie B? Well, we will check back to Serie B and the Lega Pro in October during the next International break. For now, its back to Serie A.