Sinisa Mihajlovic saw “that step up in mentality” when Sampdoria held second-placed Roma 0-0 at Marassi.

“We pressed in a very attacking way in the opening 15 minutes, as we thought that if we scored early they would crumble,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.

Sinisa Mihajlovic saw “that step up in mentality” when Sampdoria held second-placed Roma 0-0 at Marassi.

“We pressed in a very attacking way in the opening 15 minutes, as we thought that if we scored early they would crumble,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.

“They had chances with Gervinho in the first half and Florenzi in the second, while we went close with Okaka and several set plays.

“Both teams tried to play football and I think tonight we saw Sampdoria make that step up in mentality, realising we can take on anyone and be competitive.”

The Blucerchiati are the only side in Serie A still unbeaten – along with Juventus – and maintain third place.

“The pitch was not in good condition and the bounce was awkward, so that makes it difficult for teams accustomed to playing ball to feet. It can cause a split second delay to adjust positions and that means passes, shots and even offsides are affected.

“We always try to play our football and knew we could cause problems for Roma if we pressed them early.

“I knew we would struggle if we allowed Gervinho, Ljajic or Totti through the middle, whereas they are not that strong in the air and therefore we chose to allow more space down the flanks for crosses.”

Sergio Romero performed a spectacular save on Alessandro Florenzi in the final minutes, but is only playing because Emiliano Viviano is injured.

How did Mihajlovic handle dealing with a goalkeeper who went from the World Cup Final for Argentina to sitting on the Sampdoria bench?

“It wasn’t difficult, as you must always be fair and honest with players. He always acted like a great professional, we all know Romero’s quality and he had a great performance today. He gives a sense of security to the defence, as did Viviano when he was in goal.”

Television cameras caught a moment before the game with a Bob Marley song echoing around the locker room.

“Football is fun for us, not suffering. The players choose the music and we have a lot of DJs in the team.”

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