Dzeko snatches the equalizer in injury time to save Roma from another disaster, but how many chances wasted and what kind of referee to deny once again justice, for a Roma team revived at last. It was grotesque to see referee Orsato somehow reverting his linesman decision to punish a foul on Strootman, then the Sampdoria player delivers the ball that causes the VAR to decide a penalty in favour of the home team. Just before that, the ref ignored two clear hand balls in the Samp penalty area, denying any VAR intervention. Is this the way forward?
In spite of the negative events, Roma were a better team last night, at least trying hard to overcome market rumours and the recent bad form. Sampdoria did threat at times, but it was Roma who created at least 7 clear chances, the scoring ability still missing but also a few jinxed situations denied Di Francesco’s men from netting 3 points. Good news: Youngster Mirko Antonucci was a big surprise, showing skills and providing Dzeko with the equalizer when he came on.
Other positive note was Patrik Schick, at last showing off what he’s capable of, lovely technique, he was a thorn on the side of Sampdoria defense. But what future has he on the wing? Will he step in for Dzeko in the centre if the bosnian leaves for Chelsea? On the left flank, Kolarov is struggling, defalted and out of pace, he’s not up to his standards. Emerson Palmieri shoud really stay, or definitely Monchi needs to sign another player an alternative.
Seria A table looks grim at the moment, with Napoli and Juve battling for the Scudetto, Lazio flying for third spot, Roma and Inter to fight for fourth place and qualify fort next Champions League camnpaign. Sad but true. Next Sunday, a replay fixture against Sampdoria, let’s get the 3 points this time! Always Forza Roma!