0-3-3-3. Is this the new football manager formation? Nope. But it could have gone worse. Castagna’s goal at min 44 signalled what was coming next. The incurable disease. Roma went to dressing rooms and never came back, even when Duvan Zapata missed the penalty we all knew it was coming anyway. It took only 40 seconds for Zapata to reedeem himself, eventually scoring the equaliser.
Roma have become experts in squandering comfortable advantages. First half looked a great team, cynical and overly superior, but then lose control completely when simply conceding a goal and keeps lacking the same attitude, head and legs. The question is whether this is due fitness or just mental concentration. Or both.
Di Francesco has risen from the ashes in the New Year. Roma have comeback playing and winning. But he’s been unable to fix this issue so far. It’s chronic, persistent and frustrating for the fans. We cannot believe Roma are unable to keep a 3 nil advantage at nearly half-time in total control of the game up to that point. We cannot believe the same team did not catch or pass a single ball in the second half. We cannot believe this incredible transformations happen on a regular basis.
Di Francesco has his own responsibilities here. His job is to make sure no-one sits back and relax. No one enter the field with the wrong attitude. It’s all about team performance. Yet, we can spare three players from yesterday shambles. Edin Dzeko, finally back with goals. El Sharaawy again on the scoresheet, looking focused and sharp. Finally, Zaniolo, simply outstanding once again with his pace and classy passes. He seems to come from another planet. We fear big club offers on the horizon.
Overall. Not an easy one to digest but not a tragedy either, snicked a point over Lazio and Inter, who have far more serious problems on and off the pitch. No time to think. Fiorentina away on Wednesday, Coppa Italia tie, quarter final. Too important, we must win to get to the semis with the clear objective to lift the trophy. The players must know that. Daje. Head up! Forza Roma !!