Giroud strikes give AC Milan derby glory

Olivier Giroud has again showed why he can never be written off, scoring two late goals as AC Milan rallied to beat city rivals Inter Milan 2-1 and re-ignite the Serie A title race.

Milan moved one point behind defending champions and leaders Inter, who have played one game less.

Napoli can move level on points with Milan if they win at Venezia on Sunday.

Midfielder Ivan Perisic put Inter ahead in the latest derby when he volleyed home from just inside the penalty area in the 39th after a corner.

Simone Inzaghi's side looked in comfortable control until Giroud equalised in the 75th.

Four minutes later, Giroud produced a superb flick with his right foot to spin around his marker inside the area, before curling the ball under the body of goalkeeper Samir Handanovic with his left.

The 35-year-old Giroud exulted in front of Milan's fans and showed them why he is an able replacement for injured idol Zlatan Ibrahimovic, even though he has never been as skillful or popular.

But he has other qualities, among them never giving up despite constant criticism of his playing style over the years.

He jumped into the arms of coach Stefano Pioli after the final whistle, his name written alongside other match-winners at the Derby della Madonnina.

Milan finished the game with 10 players after left back Theo Hernandez was sent off in the fifth minute of stoppage time.

Sixth-placed Roma drew 0-0 at home with Genoa with both sides finishing the game a man down.

Roma midfielder Nicolo Zaniolo wheeled away in delight and tore off his shirt after drilling in a last-minute shot, but then was sent off for protesting to referee Rosario Abisso after his effort was ruled out by a video review.

Genoa had defender Leo Ostigard sent off in the 68th