GIALLOROSSI YORKSHIRE BLOG
Earlier in the season, much was made of Roma's impressive defensive record, with the team conceding far fewer goals than their rivals.
As time progressed, it became apparent that perhaps the good record wasn't to be attributed to the defence, but to the heroics of Alisson in goal. Defensively, Roma were starting to look a little more shaky and disorganised, with the Brazilian shotstopper often keeping his team in the game after mistakes in front of him. On Friday night against Torino though, Roma's four defenders were back to their best, playing a significant role in securing the three points. The clean sheet was fully deserved, and this time, it wasn't just Alisson who was to thank for it. You could go as far as arguing that every member of the back four had their best game for a long time. This was certainly the case for Alessandro Florenzi, who had a major impact on the game. Florenzi has not been his usual self over the last few months, but against Torino he regained his technique and influence. His crosses were successful, one leading to an assist, and he didn't look out of place defensively, when he has been exposed so often in recent games. Florenzi's opposite full back, Aleksandar Kolarov, had a fascinating start to the season, but had recently begun to look like a victim of playing too much. But just like Florenzi, he got forward on several occasions, creating three chances. And when play broke down, he got back in position and helped on the defensive side too. The centre back pairing of Kostas Manolas and Juan Jesus were assured as well, not letting Andrea Belotti have an influence on the game. It was incredibly fitting that Manolas got the opening goal, which he dedicated to his former centre back partner Davide Astori. It was a touch of class from Manolas, and if you believe in fate, perhaps this was a prime example. Manolas's goal was also a reward for his own superb performance. He made important blocks and challenges, forming the beating heart of the defence. Time and again, he proves himself to be one of the most passionate players on the pitch, and yesterday he backed it up, as usual, with a fantastic display. His case was a strong one for man of the match. The defence will need to be on their A-game again next week against Shakhtar, but they showed against Torino what their capabilities are. Each member of the back four played a big part in sealing the win last night, and are fully deserving of the praise that comes their way.
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samuel bannister
Founder and editor of Giallorossi Yorkshire, who is also a columnist for Roma's official website about the women's team. Categories
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October 2019
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