(CNN) -- Tensions often run high in top-level sports, but it is rare to see a team's coach physically attack one of their own players. However, that was the bizarre situation in an Italian soccer match on Wednesday -- and it has cost Fiorentina coach Delio Rossi his job. The 51-year-old has been sacked just six months after being tasked with turning around the fortunes of the top-flight team following an astonishing fight with young midfielder Adem Ljajic during the Serie A match against Novara. Rossi clambered into the dugout and attempted to punch the Serbian after the 20-year-old sarcastically applauded a decision to replace him, with Fiorentina at that stage losing 2-0 against a team that has been relegated to the second division.Fiorentina coach Delio Rossi sacked after attacking player Adem LjajicRossi lashes out at Serbian after he sarcastically applauds decision to replace himThe outburst comes 32 minutes into match against Novara, with Fiorentina later drawing 2-2Club president Andrea Della Valle says: "No provocation can justify that reaction"
It is not up to me justifying _, but he has never done anything like that." I know that at this moment _ is suffering more than anyone else and I want to respect the work he has done here for us."