Let’s clarify something: The free kick that led Muriel’s winners was an invention by the referee. Then, Dzeko was never offside, should have been a penalty in the last minute. The final result definitely decided by the match officials. Roma were 1-2 up but at the end suffered a 3-2 defeat to Sampdoria.
It was an agonising afternoon. Spalletti surprised everyone with Vermaelen from the start with Manolas out. Another change that reminded us Gerson playing from the start against Juve. It did not pay off, again. Why change?
Roma did not play well, Sampdoria capitalised. Despite Peres early goal, Roma was quite poor especially in midfield with De Rossi and Strootman, Nainnggolan did not make his usual mark. Despite the goal, Peres was awful again. Dzeko missed the usual good chances to finish off the game.
Overall, a poor performance, nevertheless still 1-2 up. Then, the referee makes its mark. Roma did not play well, but could have grabbed a draw at least. Every year, the same. Juve will probably go 7 points up after their game against Crotone; Napoli will probably beat Palermo and will join Roma in second place. Next 5/6 matches will see the Giallorossi facing tough tests, Napoli will have fairly easy instead. Scudetto will be very difficult now, but we cannot give up now, there are still many games left to play. Psychology will be important from tomorrow, must react! Fiorentina next Tuesday week. Cesena this coming Wednesday, Coppa Italia quarterfinals. Can’t see us not going to the semis. Agree?
Stefano Sale @asroma.ie
