Buffon cheered by Ferrara

Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon hailed the influence of coach Ciro Ferrara after the Old Lady posted a 2-1 win over Inter Milan to breathe new life into the Serie A title race.

Diego's free-kick, which appeared to deflect in off an Inter player, put the home side ahead in the 21st minute but Samuel Eto'o brought Inter level five minutes later. The game was settled in the 58th minute, Claudio Marchisio hitting a superb winner as third-placed Juve moved to within five points of the leaders.

And Italy international Buffon praised Ferrara for instilling a big-game mentality into his players, saying: "(The build-up to the match) this week was relaxed thanks to the coach, who gave us confidence and showed faith in us."

He added: "This was quite a tough match but it was a good match and both teams played well.

"The three points we won gives us another injection of faith. Now it is important to be consistent and prove ourselves against less highly-ranked teams.

"I must, however, say that I never thought Juve would fail in big matches."