Coach Vincenzo Montella praises Sampdoria after defeating Udinese 2-0: 'Our performances are finally consistent, we'd better not lose now'.
The Doria picked up three points against the Zebrette, showing a defensive resilience they could have used earlier in the season.
“We allowed very little to our opponents, only a header by [Duvan] Zapata in the first half,” he told the Press. “We created four clear goal chances. But I like the team as far as temperament goes.
Coach Vincenzo Montella praises Sampdoria after defeating Udinese 2-0: 'Our performances are finally consistent, we'd better not lose now'.
The Doria picked up three points against the Zebrette, showing a defensive resilience they could have used earlier in the season.
“We allowed very little to our opponents, only a header by [Duvan] Zapata in the first half,” he told the Press. “We created four clear goal chances. But I like the team as far as temperament goes.
“Muriel really sacrificed himself in this game. I think the best thing about his performance was the return pass at the end of the first half. I liked that poacher movement.
“It'd been a long time since he last played and he burned a lot of energy, that's why I took him off. With Antonio [Cassano] he did well, we scored the second goal in a counter.”
Sampdoria appear to be fixing their defence, as they finally reduced the number of goals conceded per game.
“It all comes down to balance. Regardless of this victory or that horrendous first half against Chievo, we do have continuity.
“We no longer suffer the initiative of our opponents as much. The defence is the foundation of that, but the team scores a lot because we have a lot of quality.
“Their players were very physical. There was a little bit of concern, because when you take a goal – even a messy one – then the last minutes can become dramatic, in sporting terms.
“Sometimes this team showed their best in the most difficult moments. They know what to do and now they can do it better, because we've known each other for longer.
“Yes, I've spoken with the President. I'd like to thank him and wish him well in the name of the team. This victory is dedicated to him.
“Now we must think about keeping this up. We reached a good and consistent level of performance, so it would be a shame to think we're safe now.
“We have the opportunity of bringing our skills to the pitch, to have fun, and to let our supporters have fun, after they suffered alongside us.
“A replacement for [Andrea] Ranocchia? I'll have a think. Right now I'm not lucid enough to think of suspensions.”