Soccer-Donadoni hits out at critics after Italy beat Scotland

By James Eve

BARI, Italy, March 28 (Reuters) - Italy coach Roberto Donadoni hit out at his critics after the world champions beat Scotland 2-0 to relaunch their Euro 2008 qualifying campaign on Wednesday.

The win, thanks to a goal in each half by Fiorentina striker Luca Toni, put an end to 10 days of fierce criticism by the Italian press, who had suggested Donadoni's job was on the line after a slow start in Group B.

"Unfortunately, in Italy we like to play out matches on the pages of the newspapers before we do on the field," Donadoni told a news conference after the game at Bari's San Nicola stadium.

The victory left the world champions fourth in Group B on 10 points from five matches, two points behind France, Ukraine and Scotland, though the Scots have played one game more.

Asked whether Italy were now back on track to qualify, Donadoni replied: "I honestly haven't really considered the standings yet.

"What's important is that we continue like this and try to win all of our matches. That's our philosophy."

Donadoni denied Italy had made a poor start in their qualifiers. The Azzurri drew 1-1 Lithuania, then lost 3-1 to France before notching up back-to-back wins over Ukraine and Georgia.

"We only did badly in the game against Lithuania. But if we hadn't dropped those points, we would be looking at a different set of standings," he said.