Catania shoot up standings

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

SIENA, Italy -- Catania jumped from 16th place to a tie for 10th in Serie A following a 1-0 win at Siena on Wednesday in a match that was rescheduled due to a snowstorm.

Francesco Lodi converted a penalty in the 23rd minute and Catania's Argentine goalkeeper Juan Pablo Carizzo made a series of difficult saves in the final minutes.

Siena remained in 17th place, just two points clear of the relegation zone.

Catania had never beaten Siena in nine previous matches in the top Italian league but can now feel comfortable about avoiding the drop zone, also having another match to make up.

Lodi's penalty was awarded for a handball by Alessandro Gazzi and Catania wanted another penalty in the 63rd but the referee ruled that a Siena foul occurred just outside the area and Lodi's ensuing free kick sailed just over the bar.

Siena's Michael Agazzi had a dangerous shot in the 71st but Carrizo tipped it over and then made another reflex save in the 82nd following a free kick.

The match was originally scheduled for Feb. 1.