17 April 2016
While the Bianconeri’s 4-0 victory over Palermo ultimately came about in convincing fashion, Massimiliano Allegri pointed out that his side’s Sunday afternoon might have been less straightforward had Palermo capitalised on the pair of highly promising opportunities which fell their way towards the end of the first half.
“We gave them numerous chances on goal in the first period,” the Tuscan tactician began. “We simply can’t afford to go napping like we did for those ten minutes before the break. We can’t be conceding goals and we ought to be managing matches better at this crucial stage of the season.”
Indeed, the notion of fighting until the very end of the campaign, a key component of the club’s DNA, was something Allegri stressed his charges needed to do as they look to pick up the seven points they need to put a fifth successive Serie A title beyond all doubt.
“We still need two wins and a draw to be mathematically certain of the Scudetto. We have to close out matches and be aware that the other title-chasers have an easier run-in than we do, given that we face two teams pushing for Europa League qualification in Lazio and Fiorentina.”
Wrapping up his post-match comments, the 48-year-old reminded his players that they need to keep their cool better in certain situations. Nevertheless, this latest victory (a 22nd from 23 league fixtures) drew words of praise for a team brimming with youthful talent.
“(Alvaro) Morata’s yellow card for protesting was certainly avoidable and there were also a few other mistakes made on the day. That said, this group boasts enormous quality and has a very bright future given how young many of them are.”
