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This was a meant to be a turning point for both sides, as Toro needed to pick up points to mount a UEFA Cup push, while Empoli had to get off the foot of the table, but fear dominated proceedings.
The Tuscans were without Daniele Balli, Felice Piccolo, Daniele Adani, Claudio Marchisio, Guillermo Giacomazzi and Antonio Buscè, plus the suspended Richard Vanigli. The Granata also had concerns with David Di Michele sidelined, but Alvaro Recoba returned from injury.
The Torino fans were banned from making the trip due to increased security measures, so it was an all-Empoli Stadio Castellani. They had never won here in Serie A with just three draws and a 1987 defeat.
After just 25 seconds Nicola Pozzi combined with Luca Saudati to fire over from a promising scoring position, but Alessandro Rosina's trademark free kick shaved a coat of paint off the upright.
Andrea Raggi ran down the right flank for Saudati's well-saved flick, but Rosina was running the show with a solo effort well saved and a brilliant searching pass that sent Simone Barone clear on goal.
In first half stoppages Eugenio Corini chipped a pass over the defence for Gianluca Comotto and his fierce shot stung Daniele Bassi's palms at the near post.
Substitute Luca Antonini had a wonderful opportunity just seven minutes after coming on for Empoli, as dispossessed Rosina and brought a tough save out of Sereni's outstretched foot.
Raggi had a great chance to give Empoli the lead on the hour mark, but it was a defender's finish, blasting over the bar from close range. Sereni parried an Ighli Vannucchi shot.
Gigi Cagni finally introduced Under-21 international sensation Sebastian Giovinco, who has been criminally under-used at club level this season. He set up four of Italy's five goals against Azerbaijan last week.
Alvaro Recoba tried to bring some more creativity to Toro as he returned from injury, but could not break the deadlock.
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