Genoa trampled 3-0 by Roma

By: j | February 8th, 2009

After a superb run in which they were unbeaten over the previous ten matches, Genoa was stampeded by Roma 3-0 at the Stadio Olimpico. The loss sends the Rossoblu to fifth in the Serie A table.

After a slow start, the Giallorossi pedigree began to shine through and it wasn’t long till they dominated the match in such a matter that I question whether the Forum would have been more apropos for the encounter. Highlighted by three brilliant goals, Genoa’s valiant efforts were never up to par and it appeared my concern of not “attacking” and being “bold” was the crux of the problem. Caught in the headlights, the Rossoblu seemed to spend more time watching on their back heels.

Four minutes before the half hour Francesco Totti led a magnificent goal as dissecting the Genoa defenders, providing the ball to Simone Perrotta who then crossed to Cicinho inside the six yard box for an efficient finish into the net. Although Roma created a number of chances the match went to the break only 1-0 in the hosts favour. However that would change quickly as only two minutes after the break Daniele De Rossi led a lighting charge from the Roma half and sent a cross to Mirko Vučinić at the edge of the area with the Montenegrin international hammering a stunning left footed volley to the back of the net. Eight minutes later Genoa received a lifeline of sorts as Rodrigo Taddei was shown a yellow card and with the man advantage opportunities opened up. Another concern erupted just past the hour as Genoa ‘keeper Rubinho left with an injury following a collision with Philippe Mexes and was replaced by Alessio Scarpi. The man advantage was eliminated with twenty-one minutes remaining as Giuseppe Sculli was shown his second yellow. Oddly the level footing seemed to be advantageous to Genoa as the final ten minutes their confidence grew. While late in the afternoon both Diego Milito and Boško Janković made an assault towards the Roma goal but each effort was turned back and the match stayed level. Luciano Spalletti’s side wasn’t complete as with time running down Júlio Baptista got on the end of a long ball before firing the ball to the back of the net from just inside the area bringing the match to a 3-0 conclusion.

It was a telling loss but equally from commentary of many members of the club during the week, expected. Genoa is an emerging side, brimming with talent and capable to play with the best. However to play with the best you must believe in yourself. To challenge, to fight and fear nothing. The Champions League is that, a place for champions who fight on against all foes and fear nothing. Fear is for others and that is the needed elixir for Genoa if they are to attain their dreams.

Genoa returns to Seria A action next Sunday against Fiorentina.