Mattia Aramu scored into an empty net late in the first half after a perfect set up from Gianluca Busio and Thomas Henry left Fiorentina goalkeeper Pietro Terracciano out of position.

La Viola, who had won three of four away matches, were reduced to 10 men when Riccardo Sottil picked up his second yellow card in the 77th minute.

Former Argentina goalkeeper Sergio Romero started for Venezia after signing on a free transfer a week ago, marking his first Italian league appearance in seven years.

Romero - who was released by Manchester United at the end of last season - was tested early on, producing a save on a dangerous shot from Giacomo Bonaventura.

Dusan Vlahovic had few chances amid speculation that he has already committed to Juventus, after Fiorentina president Rocco Commisso announced the star centre forward will not renew his contract.

Venezia, who are playing in the top division for the first time in 19 years, moved up to 15th with their first home triumph in Serie A since February 2002, while Fiorentina remained ninth.

Australian Associated Press