Lazio and Roma share spoils in heated derby draw

ROME :Lazio and AS Roma played out a 0-0 draw in Serie A on Sunday as both sides missed opportunities in a fiery derby clash that produced a flurry of yellow cards at the Stadio Olimpico.

Lazio had the best chance following Roma's aggressive start, with Luis Alberto unleashing a powerful shot from outside the box that struck the woodwork midway through the first half.

The result saw Roma climb one place to seventh on 18 points, three points off the top four, while Lazio are 10th with 17.

There were eight yellow cards, including one shown to Lazio coach Maurizio Sarri for dissent in what proved to be another intense battle in Serie A's 159th 'Derby della Capitale'.

Roma applied the pressure in the opening minutes but Romelu Lukaku's header from a cross sailed over the bar.

Jose Mourinho's side thought they had taken the lead after Bryan Cristante put the ball in the net from a rebound, only to have the goal disallowed for offside.

Roma keeper Rui Patricio made a crucial reaction save to keep out Alessio Romagnoli's header just before the half-hour.

As the battle for possession intensified in midfield tensions rose and the referee had his hands full controlling scuffles that broke out several times during the match.

Lazio visit bottom club Salernitana after the international break on Nov. 25, while Roma host Udinese the day after.