The 2008-09 campaign delivered a strong, if ultimately unrewarded, season for Triestina as the Alabardati finished a respectable 8th in Serie B, just four points shy of a promotion play-off spot. Leading the charge with his characteristic finishing was forward Luigi Della Rocca, whose crucial 11 goals anchored the attack in a season built on a consistent mid-table push under manager Rolando Maran. The campaign is remembered for their hopes of challenging the elite and marked a solid, competitive year in the club's modern history.