Torino have officially announced that veteran coach Giampiero Ventura has left the club, and has been replaced by former AC Milan tactician Siniša Mihajlović.
In his five year spell at the club, Ventura oversaw a number of memorable moments including promotion, a European adventure and a long awaited derby victory over Juventus.
However, despite a promising start, last season was a disappointing one for the Granata, as Toro could only manage a 12th placed finish. Therefore, with Ventura heavily linked with replacing Antonio Conte as Italy coach, his contract has been terminated by mutual consent.
Toro president Urbano Cairo has acted quickly to replace Ventura, with Siniša Mihajlović agreeing a two year deal to become the new coach.
Mihajlović was rather harshly sacked as AC Milan coach in April, and has previously been in charge of Sampdoria, Fiorentina and Catania.
Showing posts with label Giampiero Ventura. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Giampiero Ventura. Show all posts
Thursday, 26 May 2016
Wednesday, 29 May 2013
Bourne's Season Review Part Seven : The Coach
Part Seven : The Coach
Giampiero Ventura, vote 6.5
Giampiero Ventura, vote 6.5
The longest serving coach of the
Urbano Cairo era and only Toro trainer to complete two full seasons since
Emiliano Mondonico left in 2000. In both campaigns ‘Ace’ has delivered the
minimum goal: promotion to Serie A, followed by a (relatively) comfortable
top-flight finish.
The positives: the team has a set identity and almost always has a
clear tactical plan. Against poorer sides, Ventura likes his sides to build
play from the back, maintain possession and draw the opposition in. Against
more technical players and quality teams, he relies more on a submissive,
counter-attacking approach. There have been very few games over the two years
where Toro have been either comprehensively outplayed or not in the match during
the final stages. He has got the best out of almost all the players, often by
virtue of having a block of players from his Pisa and Bari days, one of few
coaches in Italian football to have a direct influence on the transfer policy.
Team spirit is solid: rare have been fallings out, talk of a rotten spogliatoio
- so common at the club over the past two decades – has never surfaced and the
team possesses resilience, notable in the comeback from 3-0 down away at
Fiorentina late in the season.
The negatives: Not all the block of players Ventura has insisted on
signing from his former clubs have been a success. The continued deployment of
two – Riccardo Meggiorini and Salvatore Masiello – has bewildered many fans
(more on those two in another section). Ventura must also take a share of the
blame for the team’s inability to hold on to leads and the huge amount of goals
conceded in the final 15 minutes of matches (lack of physical preparation, poor
concentration or untimely substitutions?). The team’s results have also been
kamikaze, demonstrating a tactical immaturity. The first half of the season saw
a long unbeaten stretch away from home where the defence excelled and
counterattacking football reaped rewards (albeit most results were draws). The
team scored few goals, collected an unwanted amount of 0-0 scorelines and
struggled to break down teams at home. Come the second half of the season, the
team improved at home, playing entertaining football in a serious of
schizophrenic matches (Siena and Napoli at home; Cagliari and Fiorentina away
come to mind). A total of eight victories is relatively meagre as is the
prolonged lack of success against a good team. The win over Lazio came against
a depleted side playing with 10 men. The 16 draws are a European record the
Granata share – fittingly – with Bordeaux. The side sometimes lacked conviction
and confidence, respecting reputations too highly. His experiment at playing
3-5-2 in the final weeks of the season could be an interesting nod to a
tactical change for next year. The 4-2-4 formation saw the side regularly
overrun and become increasingly predictable to play against.
Verdict: The next stage for the club is to settle itself as a
top-flight side, finish in the top half of the table and experience no
relegation worries. The pressure is more on Cairo & Petrachi to deliver a
financial commitment and the right signings. Coaches tend to have a limited
shelf-life in Italian football. I’d be happy to see Ventura stay providing he
still feels in control of the ‘project’ and continues to have an influence on
transfer policy. He deserves a third season.
Saturday, 19 January 2013
Pescara v Torino Preview
Salvatore Masiello, Matteo Darmian, Kamil Glik, Giuseppe Vives and Alessandro Gazzi have all returned to the squad after being suspended last week, although captain and top scorer Rolando Bianchi misses out after picking up his fourth booking of the season against Siena.
New signing Paulo Vitor Barreto has been included in the squad for the first time, and despite Bianchi's absence - Giampiero Ventura is likely to start with Gianluca Sansone and Riccardo Meggiorini upfront, due to the Brazilian's lack of fitness.
Although they actually beat Torino to the Serie B title last season, Pescara were odds on favourites to go straight back down this season. However, after impressive victories against Catania and Fiorentina in recent weeks, the Delfini have clipped out of the bottom three and are only three points behind Toro.
Prediction
Pescara 1-2 Torino
Friday, 27 April 2012
Torino V Crotone Preview
Wingers Alen Stevanovic and Juan Surraco will miss out through injury, so Stefano Guberti could be recalled to the starting eleven. If Giampiero Ventura decides to revert to a 4-2-4 formation, then Cristian Pasquato could finally earn his first start in a Torino shirt.
Visitors Crotone will make the long journey north to Turin confident of gaining a positive result after picking up impressive victories against Padova, Sampdoria and Hellas Verona in recent weeks. That run of good form under the stewardship of caretaker manager Massimo Drago has seen the Calabrians move away from the relegation zone.
Prediction
Torino 2-1 Crotone
Tuesday, 24 April 2012
Torino V Reggina (2nd Half) Preview
After being abandoned at Half-Time due to torrential rain on April 6th, Torino and Reggina will finally get the opportunity to finish their match on Wednesday afternoon.
As Toro fans will already know after the Padova debacle earlier in the season, Serie B rules state that any matches that are abandoned should be resumed from when the game was stopped. Therefore, Torino will go into the match with a 1-0 advantage given to them by Kamil Glik's header almost three weeks ago.
It will be interesting to see how Torino approach a match that will only be 45 minutes long, and they will hopefully not just defend and attempt to hold on to their lead. Giampiero Ventura has hinted in his pre-match press conference that the team will line up in a 4-3-3 formation as they did in the original match, and will probably name the exact same starting eleven.
Perhaps for the first time in football history, a team will have a different manager for the Second Half of a match than they did for the First Half, as Reggina sacked Angelo Gregucci on April 15th and replaced him with former coach Roberto Breda. That change seems to have worked as the Calabrians recorded an impressive 4-0 victory at Nocerina on Saturday to keep their hopes of reaching the playoffs alive.
Prediction
Torino 1-0 Reggina
Sunday, 4 March 2012
Grosseto 0-3 Torino
Torino bounced back from a last Sunday's defeat at Brescia with a 3-0 win in Grosseto - their first win away from home since November.
Giampiero Ventura made just the one change from that game, with Nnamdi Oduamadi replacing Migjen Basha as Toro reverted back to a 4-4-2 formation.
It was a great start for the away side as after just twelve minutes they took the lead with their first chance of the match. Mirco Antenucci broke free down the right and rounded the keeper, and although his shot was cleared off the line, Nnamdi Oduamadi was on hand to score from three yards out.
Grosseto reacted well and almost had an equaliser when Francesco Benussi's punch fell to former Juventus midfielder Simone Esposito, whose stunning volley hit the stanchion behind the goal.
As the second half began, the home side continued to look for an equaliser, and another long range shot from Martin Petras forced Benussi into a fine save. Alessandro Parisi and Riccardo Meggiorini both had half chances for Toro, but Grosseto still looked the more likely to score.
However, in injury time, the moment all Torino fans had been waiting for arrived, as substitute Juan Surraco broke down the right and delivered a pinpoint cross for fellow sub Rolando Bianchi to head home his first goal since October 15th.
Incredibly, the scoring did not finish there, as in the final minute of injury time, Giuseppe Vives' long pass found Mirco Antenucci in space, and the striker calmly lobbed the onrushing Grosseto keeper before continuing his run and side-footing into an empty net.
Although the performance at Brescia last weekend was arguably better despite losing, the most important thing was that Torino got the three points. In the process of victory, Toro also ended two long-running and unwelcome statistics (last away victory and Bianchi's last goal) as well as extending their lead at the top of the Serie B table to four points.
Forza Torino
Giampiero Ventura made just the one change from that game, with Nnamdi Oduamadi replacing Migjen Basha as Toro reverted back to a 4-4-2 formation.
It was a great start for the away side as after just twelve minutes they took the lead with their first chance of the match. Mirco Antenucci broke free down the right and rounded the keeper, and although his shot was cleared off the line, Nnamdi Oduamadi was on hand to score from three yards out.
Grosseto reacted well and almost had an equaliser when Francesco Benussi's punch fell to former Juventus midfielder Simone Esposito, whose stunning volley hit the stanchion behind the goal.
As the second half began, the home side continued to look for an equaliser, and another long range shot from Martin Petras forced Benussi into a fine save. Alessandro Parisi and Riccardo Meggiorini both had half chances for Toro, but Grosseto still looked the more likely to score.
However, in injury time, the moment all Torino fans had been waiting for arrived, as substitute Juan Surraco broke down the right and delivered a pinpoint cross for fellow sub Rolando Bianchi to head home his first goal since October 15th.
Incredibly, the scoring did not finish there, as in the final minute of injury time, Giuseppe Vives' long pass found Mirco Antenucci in space, and the striker calmly lobbed the onrushing Grosseto keeper before continuing his run and side-footing into an empty net.
Although the performance at Brescia last weekend was arguably better despite losing, the most important thing was that Torino got the three points. In the process of victory, Toro also ended two long-running and unwelcome statistics (last away victory and Bianchi's last goal) as well as extending their lead at the top of the Serie B table to four points.
Forza Torino
Sunday, 19 February 2012
Torino V Sampdoria Preview
With promotion rivals Pescara and Sassuolo only being able to draw this weekend, Toro will be looking to take advantage, but will be aware that Sampdoria should not be underestimated. Despite being many peoples favourites for promotion this season, i Blucerchiati have struggled to adapt since their relegation and currently sit in tenth place, eight points from the playoffs.
Incredibly, Sampdoria have actually lost less matches than both Hellas Verona (2nd) and Pescara (4th) but have drawn far too many games, and their tally of 13 is the most in the division. One of their defeats came at the hands of Torino at the Luigi Ferraris back in September, as goals from Sergiu Suciu and Rolando Bianchi gave the Granata a 2-1 victory. However, this season Sampdoria have actually fared better away from home, as five of their eight victories have come on the road, including an impressive victory at Padova in January.
Giampiero Ventura, a former Sampdoria player and manager, has a number of options ahead of the match, and may chose to revert to the 4-3-3 formation that has previously been successful. Cristian Pasquato could make his debut, whilst Rolando Bianchi will be looking to end his goal drought, that by the time of kick off will have lasted 128 days.
Forza Torino
Prediction
Torino 1-1 Sampdoria
Sunday, 29 January 2012
Varese 0-0 Torino
Torino could only manage a goalless draw against Varese in difficult conditions at the Stadio Franco Ossola, a result that moved Toro down to third place in the table.
Francesco Benussi made his first appearance for the away side, whilst fellow January signing Riccardo Meggiorini made his first start, as once again Rolando Bianchi started on the bench.
Torino made a bright start and should of had a penalty in the opening stages when Meggiorini was upended by home goalkeeper Walter Bressan in the area. However, referee Angelo Cervellera waved away the appeals and Toro's long wait for a penalty kick continues.
In form striker Mirco Antenucci came close to scoring for the third successive game, but after jinking past two defenders, his shot went narrowly wide of the post. Toro's best chance of the first half occurred when Juan Surraco found himself in space on the right wing and dribbled into the area before cutting the ball back to Meggiorini who blazed over the bar. In fairness to the new signing, the ball did seem to bobble on the poor pitch before it reached the striker, but he still should have hit the target.
The home side had to wait until the second half for their first real chance of the match, as substitute Gianpietro Zecchin's dipping volley only just went over the bar from 30 yards. Toro coach Giampiero Ventura was dismissed from the touchline after complaining about a foul on Meggiorini, who was subbed for captain Rolando Bianchi with twenty minutes remaining.
Varese nearly caught Torino on the counter attack after Guiseppe Vives gave the ball away, but debutant Francesco Benussi showed good positioning to rush out of his goal and clear the danger. By the end of the game, the weather conditions had got much worse, as it became difficult to even see the ball, let alone create any chances and the game ended goalless.
After drawing their last two games away from home on difficult surfaces, Toro will be relieved to return to the Olimpico on Tuesday night against Vicenza, knowing that a victory is essential in order to keep up Sassuolo and Pescara at the top of the table.
Forza Torino
Francesco Benussi made his first appearance for the away side, whilst fellow January signing Riccardo Meggiorini made his first start, as once again Rolando Bianchi started on the bench.
Torino made a bright start and should of had a penalty in the opening stages when Meggiorini was upended by home goalkeeper Walter Bressan in the area. However, referee Angelo Cervellera waved away the appeals and Toro's long wait for a penalty kick continues.
In form striker Mirco Antenucci came close to scoring for the third successive game, but after jinking past two defenders, his shot went narrowly wide of the post. Toro's best chance of the first half occurred when Juan Surraco found himself in space on the right wing and dribbled into the area before cutting the ball back to Meggiorini who blazed over the bar. In fairness to the new signing, the ball did seem to bobble on the poor pitch before it reached the striker, but he still should have hit the target.
The home side had to wait until the second half for their first real chance of the match, as substitute Gianpietro Zecchin's dipping volley only just went over the bar from 30 yards. Toro coach Giampiero Ventura was dismissed from the touchline after complaining about a foul on Meggiorini, who was subbed for captain Rolando Bianchi with twenty minutes remaining.
Varese nearly caught Torino on the counter attack after Guiseppe Vives gave the ball away, but debutant Francesco Benussi showed good positioning to rush out of his goal and clear the danger. By the end of the game, the weather conditions had got much worse, as it became difficult to even see the ball, let alone create any chances and the game ended goalless.
After drawing their last two games away from home on difficult surfaces, Toro will be relieved to return to the Olimpico on Tuesday night against Vicenza, knowing that a victory is essential in order to keep up Sassuolo and Pescara at the top of the table.
Forza Torino
Sunday, 27 November 2011
Torino 1-0 Livorno
For long spells of this match, it looked as though Torino would be heading for a fourth consecutive draw, until Alessandro Parisi's late strike gave Toro a crucial victory.
Torino started the match with a 4-3-3 formation, with Giuseppe Vives brought in at the last minuted in order to strengthen the midfield against a Livorno side who seemed to be playing for a draw from the outset. And it was the former Lecce midfielder who had the first chance for Torino, but his shot from 25 yards was palmed away by Livorno keeper Francesco Bardi.
Livorno had a chance of their own when Torino failed to clear a corner, but Federico Dionisi's speculative overhead kick went over the bar. Giuseppe Vives was impressing in midfield for the home side, and some good work by the veteran put Mirco Antenucci through on goal, but his shot was saved by Bardi's outstretched leg.
Torino's best chance of the first half fell to Giulio Ebagua, but he could only divert Danilo D'Ambrosio's free kick wide of the post.
Toro made one change at half time with Simone Verdi replacing the unusually quiet Alen Stevanovic, but Torino could still not find the breakthrough, although Kamil Glik did come close with a header, but it was straight at Bardi. Tempers were flaring on the pitch and off it, as both Giampiero Ventura and Walter Novellino were sent from the touchline after an argument.
The turning point of the match occurred with eleven minutes remaining, when Livorno defender Alessandro Lambrughi was dismissed for two yellow cards, and Torino capitalised almost instantly. Two minutes later, Simone Verdi's corner fell to Alessandro Parisi on the edge of the area, who took a touch before unleashing a fierce left footed strike into the corner of the net.
Torino had chances to extend their lead in the closing stages, with Mirco Antenucci coming close, but Parisi's goal was enough to give Toro all three points. A victory in this match was crucial, ahead of two difficult fixtures against fellow promotion candidates Padova and Pescara, and thanks to the latter only managing to draw with Vicenza, Toro are five points clear at the top of Serie B.
Forza Torino
Torino started the match with a 4-3-3 formation, with Giuseppe Vives brought in at the last minuted in order to strengthen the midfield against a Livorno side who seemed to be playing for a draw from the outset. And it was the former Lecce midfielder who had the first chance for Torino, but his shot from 25 yards was palmed away by Livorno keeper Francesco Bardi.
Livorno had a chance of their own when Torino failed to clear a corner, but Federico Dionisi's speculative overhead kick went over the bar. Giuseppe Vives was impressing in midfield for the home side, and some good work by the veteran put Mirco Antenucci through on goal, but his shot was saved by Bardi's outstretched leg.
Torino's best chance of the first half fell to Giulio Ebagua, but he could only divert Danilo D'Ambrosio's free kick wide of the post.
Toro made one change at half time with Simone Verdi replacing the unusually quiet Alen Stevanovic, but Torino could still not find the breakthrough, although Kamil Glik did come close with a header, but it was straight at Bardi. Tempers were flaring on the pitch and off it, as both Giampiero Ventura and Walter Novellino were sent from the touchline after an argument.
The turning point of the match occurred with eleven minutes remaining, when Livorno defender Alessandro Lambrughi was dismissed for two yellow cards, and Torino capitalised almost instantly. Two minutes later, Simone Verdi's corner fell to Alessandro Parisi on the edge of the area, who took a touch before unleashing a fierce left footed strike into the corner of the net.
Torino had chances to extend their lead in the closing stages, with Mirco Antenucci coming close, but Parisi's goal was enough to give Toro all three points. A victory in this match was crucial, ahead of two difficult fixtures against fellow promotion candidates Padova and Pescara, and thanks to the latter only managing to draw with Vicenza, Toro are five points clear at the top of Serie B.
Forza Torino
Monday, 14 November 2011
Torino 1-1 Bari
Despite dominating the match, Torino could only manage a 1-1 draw in an ill-tempered match with Giampiero Ventura's former side Bari.
With Angelo Ogbonna away on international duty, Valerio Di Cesare and Francesco Pratali were the central defense partnership. whilst Manuel Iori returned to the midfield and Alessandro Sgrigna was preferred to Giulio Ebagua upfront.
Toro came close to opening the scoring in the opening stages, as Alessandro Sgrigna's corner found Francesco Pratali, but his header has volleyed over the crossbar by Andrea De Falco. It was Pratali's central defensive partner Valerio Di Cesare who had the next opportunity, but after a scramble in the six yard box, his scuffed shot was cleared off the line.
Torino continued to dominate, and it was Alessandro Sgrigna who came closest to scoring, when Bari failed to clear a corner, but his exquisite volley was saved by the foot of Bari keeper Eugenio Lamanna.
Then five minutes before half time, totally against the run of play, Torino were hit by the ultimate sucker punch as Bari took the lead. Full back Luca Ceppitelli's cross was deflected into the path of Marcos De Paula, who volleyed it into the net.
However, Torino were not behind for long as ten minutes into the second half, the Granata equalised. Manuel Iori's through ball found Mirco Antenucci who was being played onside by Diego Polenta, and Antenucci rounded the keeper with ease to score.
It was a quiet night for Toro skipper Rolando Bianchi, and he only had one chance in the game, but was unable to latch onto Francesco Pratali's long pass - and we will see later how the former Manchester City striker's night got even worse.
Bari were reduced to ten men when Diego Polenta - who had been given a torrid game by Alen Stevanovic, was dismissed for two yellow cards. However, ten minutes later, Torino were also reduced to ten men as Rolando Bianchi was given a straight red card for an elbow on Bari's Martino Borghese.
Borghese and Bianchi had been involved in a physical battle for the entire match, with the Bari defender consistently getting away with fouling the Torino striker, and when Bianchi finally retaliated, he was given his marching orders. It looked as though Borghese was holding the striker, and Bianchi then raised his arms in attempt to free himself, but it certainly did look like an elbow - though it must be said, Borghese deserves an Oscar nomination for his play acting, as his overreaction played a huge part in getting the Torino striker sent off.
Valerio Di Cesare twice came close to scoring a winning goal for Torino, but they had to make do with a point - and they now face the prospect of being without Rolando Bianchi for the next couple of games due to his suspension.
Forza Torino
With Angelo Ogbonna away on international duty, Valerio Di Cesare and Francesco Pratali were the central defense partnership. whilst Manuel Iori returned to the midfield and Alessandro Sgrigna was preferred to Giulio Ebagua upfront.
Toro came close to opening the scoring in the opening stages, as Alessandro Sgrigna's corner found Francesco Pratali, but his header has volleyed over the crossbar by Andrea De Falco. It was Pratali's central defensive partner Valerio Di Cesare who had the next opportunity, but after a scramble in the six yard box, his scuffed shot was cleared off the line.
Torino continued to dominate, and it was Alessandro Sgrigna who came closest to scoring, when Bari failed to clear a corner, but his exquisite volley was saved by the foot of Bari keeper Eugenio Lamanna.
Then five minutes before half time, totally against the run of play, Torino were hit by the ultimate sucker punch as Bari took the lead. Full back Luca Ceppitelli's cross was deflected into the path of Marcos De Paula, who volleyed it into the net.
However, Torino were not behind for long as ten minutes into the second half, the Granata equalised. Manuel Iori's through ball found Mirco Antenucci who was being played onside by Diego Polenta, and Antenucci rounded the keeper with ease to score.
It was a quiet night for Toro skipper Rolando Bianchi, and he only had one chance in the game, but was unable to latch onto Francesco Pratali's long pass - and we will see later how the former Manchester City striker's night got even worse.
Bari were reduced to ten men when Diego Polenta - who had been given a torrid game by Alen Stevanovic, was dismissed for two yellow cards. However, ten minutes later, Torino were also reduced to ten men as Rolando Bianchi was given a straight red card for an elbow on Bari's Martino Borghese.
Borghese and Bianchi had been involved in a physical battle for the entire match, with the Bari defender consistently getting away with fouling the Torino striker, and when Bianchi finally retaliated, he was given his marching orders. It looked as though Borghese was holding the striker, and Bianchi then raised his arms in attempt to free himself, but it certainly did look like an elbow - though it must be said, Borghese deserves an Oscar nomination for his play acting, as his overreaction played a huge part in getting the Torino striker sent off.
Valerio Di Cesare twice came close to scoring a winning goal for Torino, but they had to make do with a point - and they now face the prospect of being without Rolando Bianchi for the next couple of games due to his suspension.
Forza Torino
Saturday, 12 November 2011
Torino V Bari Preview
Torino coach Giampiero Ventura will come face to face with the side who sacked him in February, as Toro play Bari on Sunday evening.
Ventura was sacked by Bari after he was unable to replicate the success he enjoyed with the club in his first season in charge, when he guided them to an impressive 10th place finish.
Torino will be without Angelo Ogbonna, who made his long-awaited Italy debut last night as the Azzurri beat Poland 2-0. Toro will be boosted by the fact that influential play maker Manuel Iori has returned to the squad after serving a one match suspension, and he should come straight back into the starting eleven.
Since their relegation, Bari have encountered some financial difficulties and that may explain their relatively poor start to the season, as although they are in 9th place, they have already lost six times this season.
Ventura was sacked by Bari after he was unable to replicate the success he enjoyed with the club in his first season in charge, when he guided them to an impressive 10th place finish.
Torino will be without Angelo Ogbonna, who made his long-awaited Italy debut last night as the Azzurri beat Poland 2-0. Toro will be boosted by the fact that influential play maker Manuel Iori has returned to the squad after serving a one match suspension, and he should come straight back into the starting eleven.
Since their relegation, Bari have encountered some financial difficulties and that may explain their relatively poor start to the season, as although they are in 9th place, they have already lost six times this season.
Monday, 7 November 2011
Sassuolo 0-0 Torino
Torino increased their lead at the top of the table to five points thanks to 0-0 draw away to Sassuolo on Saturday afternoon.
Toro had to make one enforced change from the side that beat Reggina as Manuel Iori was suspended, whilst Rolando Bianchi also came into the starting eleven after being on the bench in mid-week.
Both teams observed a minutes silence before the game, in memory of the victims of the floods in Genoa, a cause particularly close to the heart of Torino coach Giampiero Ventura as he was born in the city.
It was the home side who had the first chance of the match, as Gianluca Sansone latched on to a through ball, but his left footed volley was well saved by Ferdinando Coppola. In a quiet first half for the away side, Toro's best two chances fell to Rolando Bianchi - the first a volley from 20 yards that went over the bar, and the second, a low free kick that was saved by Alberto Pomini.
Sassuolo came close to opening the scoring in the second half, but midfielder Isaac Cofie (who had a brief spell at Toro last season) saw his shot sail over the bar.With 30 minutes left, Sansone resumed his individual duel with Ferdinando Coppola, but once again the Toro goalkeeper came out on top, as he turned Sansone's long range effort around the post.
Alessandro Sgrigna replaced Giulio Ebagua as Torino looked for a goal, and Sgrigna did come close, but his shot from distance whistled narrowly past the post.
In the end, neither team could find a breakthrough and the game ended 0-0, a result that suited both sides. Elsewhere in Serie B, Pescara lost to Livorno that meant Torino increased their lead at the top of the table to five points ahead of the home game against Bari next Sunday evening.
Forza Torino
Toro had to make one enforced change from the side that beat Reggina as Manuel Iori was suspended, whilst Rolando Bianchi also came into the starting eleven after being on the bench in mid-week.
Both teams observed a minutes silence before the game, in memory of the victims of the floods in Genoa, a cause particularly close to the heart of Torino coach Giampiero Ventura as he was born in the city.
It was the home side who had the first chance of the match, as Gianluca Sansone latched on to a through ball, but his left footed volley was well saved by Ferdinando Coppola. In a quiet first half for the away side, Toro's best two chances fell to Rolando Bianchi - the first a volley from 20 yards that went over the bar, and the second, a low free kick that was saved by Alberto Pomini.
Sassuolo came close to opening the scoring in the second half, but midfielder Isaac Cofie (who had a brief spell at Toro last season) saw his shot sail over the bar.With 30 minutes left, Sansone resumed his individual duel with Ferdinando Coppola, but once again the Toro goalkeeper came out on top, as he turned Sansone's long range effort around the post.
Alessandro Sgrigna replaced Giulio Ebagua as Torino looked for a goal, and Sgrigna did come close, but his shot from distance whistled narrowly past the post.
In the end, neither team could find a breakthrough and the game ended 0-0, a result that suited both sides. Elsewhere in Serie B, Pescara lost to Livorno that meant Torino increased their lead at the top of the table to five points ahead of the home game against Bari next Sunday evening.
Forza Torino
Friday, 4 November 2011
Sassuolo V Torino
Fresh from their impressive late victory against Reggina on Tuesday, Torino make the relatively short journey to Modena to take on Sassuolo on Saturday afternoon.
Sassuolo have made a surprisingly good start to the season, and are currently just two places below Toro in third position. Much of the credit for the home side's recent form must go to striker Richmond Boakye who is loan from Genoa. The Ghanaian has striker has scored six goals from just ten games this season, so he is one player that the Toro defense must be wary of.
Toro will be without influential playmaker Manuel Iori, so Giampiero Ventura may be forced to revert back to a 4-4-2 formation and that could see Rolando Bianchi brought back into the starting eleven.
Forza Torino
Sassuolo have made a surprisingly good start to the season, and are currently just two places below Toro in third position. Much of the credit for the home side's recent form must go to striker Richmond Boakye who is loan from Genoa. The Ghanaian has striker has scored six goals from just ten games this season, so he is one player that the Toro defense must be wary of.
Toro will be without influential playmaker Manuel Iori, so Giampiero Ventura may be forced to revert back to a 4-4-2 formation and that could see Rolando Bianchi brought back into the starting eleven.
Forza Torino
Wednesday, 2 November 2011
Reggina 0-1 Torino
Torino left it late once again, but in the end they got the vital goal they needed to secure an impressive 1-0 win away to Reggina.
Giampiero Ventura decided to alter his normal formation for this game, as Giuseppe Vives was brought into the team to strengthen the midfield, as Toro lined up with a 4-3-3 formation. Ventura, perhaps controversially, left captain and top scorer Rolando Bianchi on the bench, perhaps believing that the hardworking Giulio Ebagua was better suited for this formation.
Torino had an opportunity within the opening few minutes, but Mirco Antenucci's shot was easily saved by Adam Kovacsik. Although Toro dominated possession in the first half, clear cut chances were hard to come by, with only half chances from Angelo Ogbonna and Alen Stevanovic worth commenting on.
The home side had to wait until the second half for their first 'real' chances, as some clever work from Antonino Ragusa forced Ferdinando Coppola to make a good save with his leg.Mirco Antenucci had Toro's best chance of the match, when he received a pass from Giuseppe Vives in the area, but his shot on the turn just went narrowly wide of the post.
In the absence of Bianchi, it was Angelo Ogbonna who was wearing the captain's armband, and he came close to opening the scoring as he ran unopposed from the half way line, before unleashing a fierce shot from long range, that was turned away by Kovacsik.
With ten minutes remaining, and Torino looking for the breakthrough, Rolando Bianchi did come off the bench, and his first touch was an ambitious volley from 40 yards, that only just sailed over the bar.
Four minutes later, Torino finally got their goal and it was courtesy of a fantastic cross from Luciano Zavagno, who was deputising for Alessandro Parisi, and his deep cross found Danilo D'Ambrosio at the far post whose bullet header found the back of the net.
Torino saw out the remaining minutes with little difficulty, thanks in part to yet another outstanding defensive performance from Angelo Ogbonna. This victory kept Torino four points clear at the top of the Serie B table ahead of yet another difficult away trip to third place Sassuolo on Saturday.
Forza Torino
Giampiero Ventura decided to alter his normal formation for this game, as Giuseppe Vives was brought into the team to strengthen the midfield, as Toro lined up with a 4-3-3 formation. Ventura, perhaps controversially, left captain and top scorer Rolando Bianchi on the bench, perhaps believing that the hardworking Giulio Ebagua was better suited for this formation.
Torino had an opportunity within the opening few minutes, but Mirco Antenucci's shot was easily saved by Adam Kovacsik. Although Toro dominated possession in the first half, clear cut chances were hard to come by, with only half chances from Angelo Ogbonna and Alen Stevanovic worth commenting on.
The home side had to wait until the second half for their first 'real' chances, as some clever work from Antonino Ragusa forced Ferdinando Coppola to make a good save with his leg.Mirco Antenucci had Toro's best chance of the match, when he received a pass from Giuseppe Vives in the area, but his shot on the turn just went narrowly wide of the post.
In the absence of Bianchi, it was Angelo Ogbonna who was wearing the captain's armband, and he came close to opening the scoring as he ran unopposed from the half way line, before unleashing a fierce shot from long range, that was turned away by Kovacsik.
With ten minutes remaining, and Torino looking for the breakthrough, Rolando Bianchi did come off the bench, and his first touch was an ambitious volley from 40 yards, that only just sailed over the bar.
Four minutes later, Torino finally got their goal and it was courtesy of a fantastic cross from Luciano Zavagno, who was deputising for Alessandro Parisi, and his deep cross found Danilo D'Ambrosio at the far post whose bullet header found the back of the net.
Torino saw out the remaining minutes with little difficulty, thanks in part to yet another outstanding defensive performance from Angelo Ogbonna. This victory kept Torino four points clear at the top of the Serie B table ahead of yet another difficult away trip to third place Sassuolo on Saturday.
Forza Torino
Saturday, 1 October 2011
Sampdoria 1-2 Torino
Torino produced a magnificent second half performance as they came back from behind to beat Sampdoria 2-1 on Friday night, a result that took them to the top of the Serie B table.
The Luigi Ferraris in Genoa is one of the more picturesque stadiums in Italian football, and a large crowd had come to see this clash between two sides who were both unbeaten in their opening six games.
Torino made a number of changes to the team that were victorious against Nocerina, with Valerio Di Cesare, Alessandro Parisi and Rolando Bianchi all returning to the starting eleven. However, perhaps the most surprising selection was in midfield, as young Romanian midfielder Sergiu Suciu was given his first start for the club.
Sampdoria started the game the well, with their strike force of Massimo Maccarone and Cristian Bertani looking particularly dangerous in the opening stages. It was the latter, Bertani, who had the first opportunity of the match, but his shot from 30 yards was tipped over the bar by Ferdinando Coppola in the Torino goal.
Coppola was once again forced into action as the home side began to dominate, this time the former Siena goalkeeper had to get down low in order parry Pedro Obiang's deflected shot.
Sampdoria deservedly took the lead after twenty minutes, as an unmarked Andrea Costa was able to head home from Franco Semioli's cross. After taking the lead, Samp took their foot off the gas a little and that allowed Torino to get a foothold into the match.
And just five minutes before half time, Torino were level, with virtually their first clear cut chance of the game. Serbian winger Alen Stevanovic dribbled into the area and his cut back found Sergiu Suciu, whose first time half-volley from 15 yards beat Angelo Da Costa in the Sampdoria goal.
In the second half, Samp looked a shadow of the side who had dominated for long spells in the first half, and that allowed Torino to gain the upper hand in the match. Toro coach Giampiero Ventura was also very positive in his substitutions, as he replaced the injured Suciu, with Giulio Ebagua - a striker.
And Toro were rewarded for their positivity, as with just fifteen minutes remaining, they took the lead. After a quick counter attack, Mirco Antenucci dribbled to the edge of the area and then laid the ball off to Rolando Bianchi, who took a touch to set himself, before unleashing a fierce shot into the corner of the net.
Torino saw out the remainder of the match with ease, with Matteo Darmian and Angelo Ogbonna particularly impressive in keeping Sampdoria at bay. Despite starting the game very slowly, in the end, Torino were well worth the three points thanks to a magnificent second half performance.
This result took Torino to the top of the table for the first time this season, but they will not have long to dwell on that achievement, as they will be back in action on Wednesday evening as they face Grosseto at home. Whilst it would be a lot like Torino to slip up in what looks like an easier game, lets hope they can continue their fine form and gain another three points.
Forza Torino
The Luigi Ferraris in Genoa is one of the more picturesque stadiums in Italian football, and a large crowd had come to see this clash between two sides who were both unbeaten in their opening six games.
Torino made a number of changes to the team that were victorious against Nocerina, with Valerio Di Cesare, Alessandro Parisi and Rolando Bianchi all returning to the starting eleven. However, perhaps the most surprising selection was in midfield, as young Romanian midfielder Sergiu Suciu was given his first start for the club.
Sampdoria started the game the well, with their strike force of Massimo Maccarone and Cristian Bertani looking particularly dangerous in the opening stages. It was the latter, Bertani, who had the first opportunity of the match, but his shot from 30 yards was tipped over the bar by Ferdinando Coppola in the Torino goal.
Coppola was once again forced into action as the home side began to dominate, this time the former Siena goalkeeper had to get down low in order parry Pedro Obiang's deflected shot.
Sampdoria deservedly took the lead after twenty minutes, as an unmarked Andrea Costa was able to head home from Franco Semioli's cross. After taking the lead, Samp took their foot off the gas a little and that allowed Torino to get a foothold into the match.
And just five minutes before half time, Torino were level, with virtually their first clear cut chance of the game. Serbian winger Alen Stevanovic dribbled into the area and his cut back found Sergiu Suciu, whose first time half-volley from 15 yards beat Angelo Da Costa in the Sampdoria goal.
In the second half, Samp looked a shadow of the side who had dominated for long spells in the first half, and that allowed Torino to gain the upper hand in the match. Toro coach Giampiero Ventura was also very positive in his substitutions, as he replaced the injured Suciu, with Giulio Ebagua - a striker.
And Toro were rewarded for their positivity, as with just fifteen minutes remaining, they took the lead. After a quick counter attack, Mirco Antenucci dribbled to the edge of the area and then laid the ball off to Rolando Bianchi, who took a touch to set himself, before unleashing a fierce shot into the corner of the net.
Torino saw out the remainder of the match with ease, with Matteo Darmian and Angelo Ogbonna particularly impressive in keeping Sampdoria at bay. Despite starting the game very slowly, in the end, Torino were well worth the three points thanks to a magnificent second half performance.
This result took Torino to the top of the table for the first time this season, but they will not have long to dwell on that achievement, as they will be back in action on Wednesday evening as they face Grosseto at home. Whilst it would be a lot like Torino to slip up in what looks like an easier game, lets hope they can continue their fine form and gain another three points.
Forza Torino
Sunday, 25 September 2011
Nocerina 1-2 Torino
Torino continued their unbeaten start to the season with a narrow victory at newly promoted Nocerina, their third away win of the season, and the first time they have won three consecutive away games since May 2006.
Giampiero Ventura made a number of changes to the team that drew at home to Brescia on Monday night, with Kamil Glik, Luciano Zavagno, Giuseppe Vives and Mirco Antenucci all coming into the starting eleven, with captain Rolando Bianchi left on the bench.
The home side made a bright start to the match, and Toro defender Matteo Darmian made a great tackle to deny Manuel Scalise who appeared to be through on goal. Torino's first chance of the match once again fell to Alen Stevanovic, but the winger could only hit the side netting with his left footed shot.
Torino took the lead after twenty minutes, and it was one of the players brought into the side, Mirco Antenucci, who scored the goal. Initially, it looked as though Antenucci had wasted a great chance to give Toro the lead after his scuffed shot had hit the post. But he didn't have long to dwell on that miss, as just seconds later, after another exquisite pass by Manuel Iori, he was put through on goal, and this time he made no mistake and put Torino 1-0 up.
Torino nearly doubled their lead after a clever free kick routine saw the ball passed along the ground to Giuseppe Vives (who had been a part of the wall) but the midfielder dragged his shot wide of the target. Just before half time, Nocerina had a great chance to equalise, but Ferdinando Coppola made a good reflex save from Luigi Castaldo's header.
Torino extended their lead on the hour mark, and once again the goal was created by outstanding wing play from Alen Stevanovic. The Serbian knocked the ball past the full back as if he wasn't there before getting to the byline and cutting the ball back to Giulio Ebagua, who controlled the ball with his right foot, turned, and then finished powerfully with his left foot to score his first goal in a Torino shirt.
However, less than ten minutes later, Nocerina were handed a way back into the match after Matteo Darmian upended substitute Emanuele Catania in the area to give the home side a penalty. Catania picked himself up to take the penalty himself, and sent Coppola the wrong way to ensure a nervy last twenty minutes for Torino.
Nocerina nearly equalised through defender Roberto Di Maio towards the end of the match, but his volley was cleared off the line by Manuel Iori, and Toro held on for a vital victory.
This result put Torino level on points with Brescia and Padova at the top of the Serie B table, and their next match promises to be an intriguing encounter as they travel to Genoa on Friday night to face Sampdoria.
Forza Torino
Giampiero Ventura made a number of changes to the team that drew at home to Brescia on Monday night, with Kamil Glik, Luciano Zavagno, Giuseppe Vives and Mirco Antenucci all coming into the starting eleven, with captain Rolando Bianchi left on the bench.
The home side made a bright start to the match, and Toro defender Matteo Darmian made a great tackle to deny Manuel Scalise who appeared to be through on goal. Torino's first chance of the match once again fell to Alen Stevanovic, but the winger could only hit the side netting with his left footed shot.
Torino took the lead after twenty minutes, and it was one of the players brought into the side, Mirco Antenucci, who scored the goal. Initially, it looked as though Antenucci had wasted a great chance to give Toro the lead after his scuffed shot had hit the post. But he didn't have long to dwell on that miss, as just seconds later, after another exquisite pass by Manuel Iori, he was put through on goal, and this time he made no mistake and put Torino 1-0 up.
Torino nearly doubled their lead after a clever free kick routine saw the ball passed along the ground to Giuseppe Vives (who had been a part of the wall) but the midfielder dragged his shot wide of the target. Just before half time, Nocerina had a great chance to equalise, but Ferdinando Coppola made a good reflex save from Luigi Castaldo's header.
Torino extended their lead on the hour mark, and once again the goal was created by outstanding wing play from Alen Stevanovic. The Serbian knocked the ball past the full back as if he wasn't there before getting to the byline and cutting the ball back to Giulio Ebagua, who controlled the ball with his right foot, turned, and then finished powerfully with his left foot to score his first goal in a Torino shirt.
However, less than ten minutes later, Nocerina were handed a way back into the match after Matteo Darmian upended substitute Emanuele Catania in the area to give the home side a penalty. Catania picked himself up to take the penalty himself, and sent Coppola the wrong way to ensure a nervy last twenty minutes for Torino.
Nocerina nearly equalised through defender Roberto Di Maio towards the end of the match, but his volley was cleared off the line by Manuel Iori, and Toro held on for a vital victory.
This result put Torino level on points with Brescia and Padova at the top of the Serie B table, and their next match promises to be an intriguing encounter as they travel to Genoa on Friday night to face Sampdoria.
Forza Torino
Friday, 23 September 2011
Nocerina V Torino Preview
For the first time since the opening weekend of the season, Torino will be playing on a Saturday as they travel to newly promoted Nocerina in search of a third successive away victory.
Although Monday's 0-0 draw with Brescia did have a number of positives, one slight worry for Torino is the fact they have only scored once in the last two matches, and that was Rolando Bianchi's last second winner against Vicenza in their last away match, so Toro will certainly be eager to create more goalscoring opportunities.
Whilst on paper, a match against a newly promoted side may be seen as an easy game, but coach Giampiero Ventura is fully aware that Nocerina will be tough opposition, as they will still be full of confidence from gaining promotion last season.
As seen with Novara last season, who, after being promoted from Lega Pro 1, had a great season in Serie B, and gained promotion via the playoffs, and are still continuing that momentum in Serie A this season after beating Inter 3-1 in midweek. Now I'm not suggesting that Nocerina may be promotion contenders, but they have made a solid start to the season by gaining 5 points from as many matches.
Giampiero Ventura has already confirmed that Kamil Glik will be given a start in defence in place of Valerio Di Cesare, and Uruguayan winger Juan Surraco may make his first start for Torino in place of Simone Verdi who has a slight injury.
Forza Torino
Although Monday's 0-0 draw with Brescia did have a number of positives, one slight worry for Torino is the fact they have only scored once in the last two matches, and that was Rolando Bianchi's last second winner against Vicenza in their last away match, so Toro will certainly be eager to create more goalscoring opportunities.
Whilst on paper, a match against a newly promoted side may be seen as an easy game, but coach Giampiero Ventura is fully aware that Nocerina will be tough opposition, as they will still be full of confidence from gaining promotion last season.
As seen with Novara last season, who, after being promoted from Lega Pro 1, had a great season in Serie B, and gained promotion via the playoffs, and are still continuing that momentum in Serie A this season after beating Inter 3-1 in midweek. Now I'm not suggesting that Nocerina may be promotion contenders, but they have made a solid start to the season by gaining 5 points from as many matches.
Giampiero Ventura has already confirmed that Kamil Glik will be given a start in defence in place of Valerio Di Cesare, and Uruguayan winger Juan Surraco may make his first start for Torino in place of Simone Verdi who has a slight injury.
Forza Torino
Tuesday, 20 September 2011
Torino 0-0 Brescia
Torino maintained their unbeaten start to the season, but were unable to find a goal as they were held to a scoreless draw against Brescia.
Giampiero Ventura made a couple of changes to the team that beat Vicenza in the last match, with Simone Verdi coming in to replace the injured Stefano Guberti, and Giulio Ebagua replacing Alessandro Sgrigna in attack.
It was Brescia who had the first chance of the match, when Fabio Daprela broke down the left, and his cross found Omar El Kaddouri, who was unlucky to see his volley rebound off the post. Torino had a good chance to opening themselves after Manuel Iori's free kick found Rolando Bianchi, but his header went well wide.
On the stoke of half time, Brescia had arguably the best chance of the half, but El Kaddouri scuffed his shot when well placed, and then former Torino midfielder Alessandro Budel had a shot from distance that went wide.
Toro had the first chance in the second half, as winger Alen Stevanovic drove into the box and unleashed a powerful low shot that was just inches away from the target. Giulio Ebagua also came close for Torino as he was eager to stake his claim for a regular starting birth, but his long range shot was also off target.
In the closing stages, Torino almost stole the three points once again after Alessandro Parisi's volley was almost diverted into the net by substitute Alessandro Sgrigna, but unfortunately for Toro, like so many chances beforehand, it went wide.
In the end, a draw was probably a fair result, and Brescia would probably be the happier of the two sides, as they seemed to be content with a point for the duration of the second half. However Toro should not be too disappointed, as Brescia are one of the better sides in the division, and it means Torino remain unbeaten, and have had clean sheets in their last three matches.
Forza Torino
Giampiero Ventura made a couple of changes to the team that beat Vicenza in the last match, with Simone Verdi coming in to replace the injured Stefano Guberti, and Giulio Ebagua replacing Alessandro Sgrigna in attack.
It was Brescia who had the first chance of the match, when Fabio Daprela broke down the left, and his cross found Omar El Kaddouri, who was unlucky to see his volley rebound off the post. Torino had a good chance to opening themselves after Manuel Iori's free kick found Rolando Bianchi, but his header went well wide.
On the stoke of half time, Brescia had arguably the best chance of the half, but El Kaddouri scuffed his shot when well placed, and then former Torino midfielder Alessandro Budel had a shot from distance that went wide.
Toro had the first chance in the second half, as winger Alen Stevanovic drove into the box and unleashed a powerful low shot that was just inches away from the target. Giulio Ebagua also came close for Torino as he was eager to stake his claim for a regular starting birth, but his long range shot was also off target.
In the closing stages, Torino almost stole the three points once again after Alessandro Parisi's volley was almost diverted into the net by substitute Alessandro Sgrigna, but unfortunately for Toro, like so many chances beforehand, it went wide.
In the end, a draw was probably a fair result, and Brescia would probably be the happier of the two sides, as they seemed to be content with a point for the duration of the second half. However Toro should not be too disappointed, as Brescia are one of the better sides in the division, and it means Torino remain unbeaten, and have had clean sheets in their last three matches.
Forza Torino
Monday, 5 September 2011
Torino 2-0 Varese
Torino joined Padova and Brescia at the top of Serie B after a hard fought 2-0 victory over Varese on Sunday night.
After only managing a draw with Cittadella in their opening home match, Giampiero Ventura's side were looking for their first home victory of the season, and the experienced tactician gave Alessandro Sgrigna and Giulio Ebagua starts up front, and left captain Rolando Bianchi on the bench.
Toro started the match brightly and Serbian winger Alen Stevanovic, making his first appearance of the season after an injury, delivered a fantastic cross in the early stages, but Alessandro Sgrigna was unable to direct his header goalwards.
The next chance fell to former Varese striker Giulio Ebagua, but when he slid in to meet Stefano Guberti's teasing cross, his effort went wide of the post. The build up play before Ebagua's chance was particularly pleasing, as Manuel Iori's pass with the outside of his foot found Guberti in space, who in turn delivered a first time cross into the area, but unfortunately Ebagua could not score.
Toro took the lead just five minutes before half time, after Stefano Guberti's fierce cross was only palmed away by the Varese keeper into the path of Alen Stevanovic, who calmly rearranged his feet, and curled a shot into the far corner.
Torino added to their lead just four minutes into the second half, after a nice lay off by Ebagua found Alen Stevanovic, and the Serbian then found Alessandro Sgrigna who unleashed a vicious shot from 20 yards to give the keeper no chance.
Despite dominating much of the game, Toro nearly presented Varese with a route back into the match, when keeper Ferdinando Coppola's mis-hit clearance went straight to Neto Pereira, but his shot was well blocked by Valerio Di Cesare.
Toro had a great chance to score a third, after a sloppy back pass by a Varese defender sent Ebagua through on goal but he was twice denied by Mathieu Moreau in the Varese goal, who also saved a shot from substitute Simone Verdi in the same move.
Although Toro were guilty of some unconvincing defending in the closing stages, they held on to the victory, and remain unbeaten so far this season, and are currently the joint leaders of Serie B.
Forza Torino.
After only managing a draw with Cittadella in their opening home match, Giampiero Ventura's side were looking for their first home victory of the season, and the experienced tactician gave Alessandro Sgrigna and Giulio Ebagua starts up front, and left captain Rolando Bianchi on the bench.
Toro started the match brightly and Serbian winger Alen Stevanovic, making his first appearance of the season after an injury, delivered a fantastic cross in the early stages, but Alessandro Sgrigna was unable to direct his header goalwards.
The next chance fell to former Varese striker Giulio Ebagua, but when he slid in to meet Stefano Guberti's teasing cross, his effort went wide of the post. The build up play before Ebagua's chance was particularly pleasing, as Manuel Iori's pass with the outside of his foot found Guberti in space, who in turn delivered a first time cross into the area, but unfortunately Ebagua could not score.
Toro took the lead just five minutes before half time, after Stefano Guberti's fierce cross was only palmed away by the Varese keeper into the path of Alen Stevanovic, who calmly rearranged his feet, and curled a shot into the far corner.
Torino added to their lead just four minutes into the second half, after a nice lay off by Ebagua found Alen Stevanovic, and the Serbian then found Alessandro Sgrigna who unleashed a vicious shot from 20 yards to give the keeper no chance.
Despite dominating much of the game, Toro nearly presented Varese with a route back into the match, when keeper Ferdinando Coppola's mis-hit clearance went straight to Neto Pereira, but his shot was well blocked by Valerio Di Cesare.
Toro had a great chance to score a third, after a sloppy back pass by a Varese defender sent Ebagua through on goal but he was twice denied by Mathieu Moreau in the Varese goal, who also saved a shot from substitute Simone Verdi in the same move.
Although Toro were guilty of some unconvincing defending in the closing stages, they held on to the victory, and remain unbeaten so far this season, and are currently the joint leaders of Serie B.
Forza Torino.
Thursday, 1 September 2011
Torino 1-1 Cittadella
Torino could only hold on to their lead for three minutes, as Cittadella fought back to gain to deserved point at the Stadio Olimpico on Wednesday night.
There was a lot of optimism surrounding Torino, after their impressive win at Ascoli at the weekend, as well as the fact they were able to retain key players Angelo Ogbonna and Rolando Bianchi in the transfer window.
However, Torino did not start the game well, and they looked a shadow of the team that were victorious on Saturday. Perhaps one of the reasons for their slow start was because there were six changes to the side that started in Ascoli, with D'Ambrosio, Di Cesare, Zavagno, Vives, Oduamadi and Antenucci all gaining starts.
Another reason for their poor start could be that Torino underestimated Cittadella, and assumed that this would be an academic home victory, they were wrong, as for much of the game, it was Cittadella who looked like the team challenging for promotion.
Torino had the opening chance of the match, when Nnamdi Oduamadi, broke free on the left wing, but his right footed shot hit the side netting. Cittadella should of taken the lead minutes later through striker Robert Maah, but his free header went wide of the target. Maah turned provider soon afterwards, as Cittadella broke away on a quick counter attack, and his pass found Thomas Job, but the midfielder slipped and his tame shot went harmlessly wide.
It was then Torino's turn to miss an easy chance, as Rolando Bianchi failed to make contact with Danilo D'Ambrosio's cross from six yards, when it had seemed easier to score.
The second half began in similar fashion to the first, as both sides were guilty of inept finishing. Once again Bianchi had a great chance to open the scoring, but after being set up by strike partner Mirco Antenucci, the captain dragged his shot wide of the post. Next up it was Cittadella's captain, Tommaso Bellazzini who entered the 'How not to finish a chance when ideally placed' competition, as he, like so many before him, dragged his shot wide.
Finally, in the 81st minute, the deadlock was finally broken as Torino took the lead in bizarre fashion. After a long goal kick from Toro keeper Ferdinando Coppola, substitute Alessandro Sgrigna forced his way into the area, and his shot hit the arm of opposition keeper Alex Cordaz and slowly rolled into the net.
However, just three minutes later, Cittadella were level, and much like the opening goal of the match, this goal could accurately be described as a fluke. It was substitute Nunzio Di Roberto who scored the goal, after converting Robert Maah's cross, but it looked as though the ball just hit Di Roberto's standing foot, before agonizingly looping into the corner of the net.
The game finished 1-1, and after taking the lead, Torino will be disappointed that they did not hold on to all three points, but overall it was certainly a fair result. The match will also have given Toro coach Giampiero Ventura a much clearer indication of what his strongest eleven is, and in Sunday's home match against Varese, we should see what Ventura believe his strongest team to be, now that the majority of the squad have been given game time.
Forza Torino
There was a lot of optimism surrounding Torino, after their impressive win at Ascoli at the weekend, as well as the fact they were able to retain key players Angelo Ogbonna and Rolando Bianchi in the transfer window.
However, Torino did not start the game well, and they looked a shadow of the team that were victorious on Saturday. Perhaps one of the reasons for their slow start was because there were six changes to the side that started in Ascoli, with D'Ambrosio, Di Cesare, Zavagno, Vives, Oduamadi and Antenucci all gaining starts.
Another reason for their poor start could be that Torino underestimated Cittadella, and assumed that this would be an academic home victory, they were wrong, as for much of the game, it was Cittadella who looked like the team challenging for promotion.
Torino had the opening chance of the match, when Nnamdi Oduamadi, broke free on the left wing, but his right footed shot hit the side netting. Cittadella should of taken the lead minutes later through striker Robert Maah, but his free header went wide of the target. Maah turned provider soon afterwards, as Cittadella broke away on a quick counter attack, and his pass found Thomas Job, but the midfielder slipped and his tame shot went harmlessly wide.
It was then Torino's turn to miss an easy chance, as Rolando Bianchi failed to make contact with Danilo D'Ambrosio's cross from six yards, when it had seemed easier to score.
The second half began in similar fashion to the first, as both sides were guilty of inept finishing. Once again Bianchi had a great chance to open the scoring, but after being set up by strike partner Mirco Antenucci, the captain dragged his shot wide of the post. Next up it was Cittadella's captain, Tommaso Bellazzini who entered the 'How not to finish a chance when ideally placed' competition, as he, like so many before him, dragged his shot wide.
Finally, in the 81st minute, the deadlock was finally broken as Torino took the lead in bizarre fashion. After a long goal kick from Toro keeper Ferdinando Coppola, substitute Alessandro Sgrigna forced his way into the area, and his shot hit the arm of opposition keeper Alex Cordaz and slowly rolled into the net.
However, just three minutes later, Cittadella were level, and much like the opening goal of the match, this goal could accurately be described as a fluke. It was substitute Nunzio Di Roberto who scored the goal, after converting Robert Maah's cross, but it looked as though the ball just hit Di Roberto's standing foot, before agonizingly looping into the corner of the net.
The game finished 1-1, and after taking the lead, Torino will be disappointed that they did not hold on to all three points, but overall it was certainly a fair result. The match will also have given Toro coach Giampiero Ventura a much clearer indication of what his strongest eleven is, and in Sunday's home match against Varese, we should see what Ventura believe his strongest team to be, now that the majority of the squad have been given game time.
Forza Torino
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