The 1970s began just as the 1960s did, with relegation following the 1970–71 season. However, promotion the following year ushered in Lazio's first truly successful period. They took to the field in the 1972–73 season with a team comprising English-born captain Giuseppe Wilson in defence, Luciano Re Cecconi and Mario Frustalupi in midfield, Renzo Garlaschelli and Giorgio Chinaglia up front, and coach Tommaso Maestrelli. With Chinaglia providing the goals and the defence giving little away, Lazio emerged as surprise challengers for the "Scudetto" to Milan and Juventus in 1972–73, only losing out on the final day of the season after conceding a late goal at Napoli (while Juventus left it late to secure a win at Lazio's bitter rivals Roma). It served as a prelude to a breakthrough for the 1973–74 season, when Lazio would sweep all before them to win their first league title, having led throughout the season.