Serie A side Lazio supporters boycotted Sunday's home match against Atalanta "in protest" at President Claudio Lotito's running of the club, according to the BBC. Fan anger "has grown amid poor league form, a lack of incoming transfer activity and the January sale of playmaker Hernanes to Inter Milan." Lazio Manager Edoardo Reja said, "It's a real shame to see the Olimpico deserted. We were in with a chance of achieving something significant but it's difficult to play in these conditions." Those Lazio fans who did attend "made clear their opposition to Lotito with banners draped over empty seats." One read, "It's him or us," while another displayed the message, "Lazio is ours and we will leave it to our children." Lotito also sacked former coach Vladimir Petkovic "in controversial circumstances in January" (BBC, 3/9). ESPN reported Lotito said that "he will seek talks with the club's supporters." Little more than 2,000 tickets were sold at the Stadio Olimpico, "that boasts a capacity of 82,307." Lotito said that he "is prepared to meet with the angry supporters, as long as talks can be constructive." Lotito: "There's been a breakdown in communication with the fans. I'm ready to meet with them and I'd be glad to do so, as long as they are not prejudiced" (ESPN, 3/10).
