Fonseca: Defending needs to improve

The Giallorossi began the 2019-20 Serie A season in erratic fashion; taking the lead on three occasions but finding themselves pegged back by the visitors at every turn.

Cengiz Under, Edin Dzeko and Aleksandar Kolarov all got on the scoresheet for the home side – but afterwards Fonseca admitted that he was most focused on some of the defensive problems the side showed.

“We started the game really well, especially in the first 15 minutes – in attack we really looked good,” Fonseca said.

“The problem was defensively, where we weren’t able to deal with the long balls – especially in the first half. From an attacking perspective the team dominated play just as I had asked them – the game was mostly played in Genoa’s half. But at the back we never found our balance.

“Genoa made the most of their chances, they countered well and were able to score three goals; whenever a team concedes three goals it’s going to be difficult to win. So it is clear from that point of view we have a lot of room for improvement.”

How can you achieve that improvement that ahead of the next game, the derby against Lazio?

“We will analyse the game and try to improve the defensive aspect. We have a big match ahead of us and we will use the time before it to prepare as well as we can – with particular attention on the defensive setup.”

The fans backed the team and saw a courageous Roma side, as you have said you want to see.

“The welcome from the fans was great. The fans must continue to have faith in this side, a side that will keep on being courageous as they were today.

"The support of the public is vital for us, and this result should not dampen their belief in the future. I am convinced that this team can have a great season. Now we know we have a tough game, the derby, and we will prepare for it as best we can, with confidence.”