Lazio added to Inter Milan's recent frustrations by holding the two-time defending Italian champions to a 1-1 draw at the Stadio Olimpico.

Inter were given a chance to extend their cushion over Roma after the Giallorossi managed only a 1-1 result at rock-bottom Cagliari, but they failed to take advantage.

Hernan Crespo gave Inter the lead in the 11th minute only for Tommaso Rocchi to level matters on the hour mark.

Lazio were unlucky not to claim three points after Ousmane Dabo struck the crossbar late in the game.

With seven games remaining, the Nerazzurri still lead Roma by just four points.

Earlier on Saturday, Roma failed to keep up the pressure on as they could only manage a point in Sardinia.

The home side got off to the best possible start thanks to a Matteo Ferrari own goal, but talismanic captain Francesco Totti grabbed Roma's equaliser at the end of the first half.

The Giallorossi laid siege to their opponents' goal in search of a winner, but could not find a way past an inspired Marco Storari.

Cagliari coach Davide Ballardini was sent from the dugout at the end for complaining at decisions given against his team.

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