There have been an awful lot of words said before, during and especially after the Derby della Madonnina, but, away from all the sniping and conspiracy theories, in footballing terms, the last word, as ever, went to Jose Mourinho, "Inter were spectacular on a tactical, physical and psychological point of view and right from the start it was obvious we were stronger."
The Rossoneri have enthralled in recent weeks, largely fuelling neutral optimism that the more fragrant of the Milanese giants would end the league monopoly attained by its superiors. Milan's freewheeling style, encapsulated by some glorious Ronaldinho showings, has almost created a void in reality, a despairing hope that good will prevail over perceived evil. But this is Serie A, where only the strongest survive, and as Signor Mourinho observed, the strongest were, and are, Internazionale.
Il Diavolo's rapid start to the decade lends a lazy route into the worn euphemism about marathons and sprints, and as la Beneamata and Mourinho have consistently proven, they remain a mightily impressive combination at accumulating points over the whole duration. A fact emphatically reaffirmed yesterday. Despite the ground share this was Inter's home fixture and no visiting team has usurped Mourinho in the league for over eight years now, and even before Wesley Sneijders dismissal, the protocol did not look like being disturbed. The focus of the Nerazzurri's play had the hallmark of champions; they started with a purpose and a conviction, which belied the differing forms of the two sides coming into the fixture. It was a reassertion of masculinity, of inner-city pride, of superiority. They may flatter to deceive at times, enthral few and win the hearts of even less, but in domestic football, il Biscione are peerless.
Unfortunately, it seems that Mourinho and President Moratti believe the powers that be are trying to instil some parity to proceedings. In his post-match de-brief the Special One could not resist implying undue conduct from the officialdom, "I have already understood they won't let us seal the Scudetto. The officials do everything to stop us winning." It was a typically full blooded riposte from the Portuguese coach, and whilst Moratti skirted the issue with a little more diplomacy, both directly expressed a view that foul play from the referee's were trying to depose Inter of their title.
It's an unfortunate trait of Mourinho that he requires so much attention. His remarks will certainly command a large proportion of the press when his players deserve maximum credit for their endeavours. Indeed he himself should be applauded for tactically stifling Milan, yet many column inches will devote themselves to yet more refereeing controversy which only ever seems to taint games. Sure, it probably wasn't a first booking for Lucio, a red for Sneijder or a penalty and a second red, but ask any smaller club if they get a fair share of the whistle against the big boys and the answer will be unanimous. This is an attack and counter-attack which has been argued by clubs on both sides of the divide for years, and one which has equal substance. Mourinho's remarks will probably lead to the league inviting him to HQ for an explanation, the secondary effect of course, is on Inter's reputation, which doesn't seem to ever advance under Jose's stewardship.
What Mourinho doesn't appear to understand is such insolence can grate inside, as well as outside of the club. This was a factor which led to his demise from Chelsea, as Roman Abramovich was keen to project a positive image both on and off the pitch for long term gain - connotations Mourinho does not always subscribe to. However, given the context of the situation and the nature of the opposition, he shall be forgiven, but, the next instance won't be far away, and support less forthcoming.
So then, now the dust has near enough settled, the Interisti can view the Serie A standings with satisfaction this morning as the Nerazzurri sit nine points ahead of their neighbours, albeit having played a game more. Next on the agenda is Thursday's Coppa Italia quarter final against the car crash that is Juventus. Ahead of that and the impending transfer deadline the club are still in talks with Lazio regarding the possible double acquisition of Aleksandar Kolarov and Cristian Ledesma. The Biancocelesti are holding firm on a bid for Serbian left-back Kolarov and are holding out for an inflated fee, plus the inclusion of a couple of academy players. The murky situation with Ledesma's contract could be resolved before it goes in front of the league's arbitration panel at the end of the month. Lazio have already been stung by losing Goran Pandev to the champions for nothing, so may decide to cash in on the Argentine midfielder for a nominal fee.
Inter may not be the most popular team around or have the purists purring, but this weekend has demonstrated the unquenchable thirst for success which is the hallmark of champions, and until somebody comes close to replicating the consistency and conviction of il Biscione, the Scudetto will remain in the blue half of the Giuseppe Meazza.
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