Atalanta coach Gigi del Neri slammed the match officials after their 2-1 defeat to Genoa last night.

Cristiano Doni had Atalanta in front midway through the second-half, only for goals from Marco Borriello and Lucho Figueroa - his first for the club - to help Genoa earn the three points.

"The result is unjust and the match officials had a nightmare," slammed Del Neri, who was sent off for dissent during the second half.

There were also doubts over whether the corner kick that generated Lucho Figueroa's winner should have been a goal kick.

"We deserved the victory and certain decisions did irrevocable damage. The only right thing the referee did today was to send me off.

"My players deserve respect for what they do. I cannot reprimand my team for anything."

Genoa boss Gasperini concedes his side was fortunate to be saved by the woodwork three times at Marassi.

"We had a bit of luck, but we also created a lot of good chances before their goal," he insisted.

"It was an intense match and at times Atalanta were superior, but Genoa reacted well. We certainly did not rob anyone.

"I said beforehand that with a victory the first half of our season would be excellent. So looking at the table we have gone beyond our expectations for a newly promoted side."