Late strikes by Italy internationals Eder and Roberto Soriano secured a precious 2-0 win over depleted Serie A new boys Bologna and pushed Sampdoria up to third place on Monday.

The fixture was originally scheduled for Sunday but was postponed due to heavy rain around Liguria.

Bologna have been counting on former Roma and AC Milan striker Mattia Destro to provide the goals this season following their promotion from Serie B.

And the visitors were holding on for a share of the points until second-half substitute Luca Rizzo saw red on 62 minutes for a second bookable offence.

The hosts soon capitalised when Eder collected Luis Muriel's delivery to beat Angelo Da Costa in the Bologna net.

Samp doubled their lead only four minutes later when Soriano beat Da Costa from distance, sealing their second win in three games to remain undefeated.

Inter Milan, 1-0 winners over city rivals AC Milan on Sunday, sit top and two points clear with champions Juventus a lowly 16th following a disastrous start to their title defence.