Derby della Capitale … What it means to ME
Four minutes into my first ever ‘Derby’ back in March 2003, Dejan Stankovic lobbed the Romanista keeper. The crowd erupted as he ran the length of the pitch to celebrate with his adoring fans – I’d never heard anything like it before.
My first experience was spoiled when Roma got a late equalizer; my first taste of victory over our city rivals was on 6th January 2005. A fantastic day, it was the game when God himself, a certain Mr Di Canio volleyed home from outside the box. Whilst he taunted the Romanistas, I celebrated on the floor of the Curva Nord with five skin heads who’d jumped on me. The night kept getting better; we played them off the field and ended up winning 3-1. Di Canio labelled ‘Il Padrino’ aka ‘The Godfather’ was substituted just before the end where he received a much deserved standing ovation – That moment will live with me forever.
I try to get back for derby matches where possible, it’s the one game I’ll pay anything for a ticket. To beat Roma is incredible but to witness it live in the stadium is the best experience a Lazio fan can have.
