Inter Milan Feel The Pressure in Serie A Title Race

There was a time in this campaign when Inter Milan were progressing serenely to a third scudetto in a row and a possible tilt at the Champions League crown in Moscow. It all looks a bit different now.

Liverpool put paid to any European ambitions and since their exit at the hands of the Reds, Inter haven't looked the same team. Coach Roberto Mancini talked of resignation after the defeat and uncertainty has worked its way into the club psyche.

Two weeks ago bitter rivals AC Milan beat them in the San Siro derby and that has been followed by a shock 2-2 home draw with a modest Siena side.

Inter's nerves will not be helped by the manner of the draw. Marco Materazzi's star has been in the ascendant since he set off for the World Cup in 2006 but the defender came down to earth when Alex Manninger saved his late penalty that could have sealed the title.

Now Inter's once distant chasers AS Roma are only single point adrift with a game to play. Roma have kept up what appeared to be a forelorn pursuit and can now see some reward.

Inter have to negotiate a tricky away fixture against a Parma side battling against the drop while Roma have a similar final day assignment at Catania.

Inter still have matters in their hands but they can't expect an easy game at Parma. If the team do fall short it would raise fears of a return to the old fragilities that affected the club for so long.