Benitez: ‘Only one positive…’

Rafa Benitez concedes “the only positive was the second half reaction” as Inter fell to another heavy defeat at Lazio.

The Nerazzurri crashed 3-1 at the Olimpico last night and could slide down to mid-table by the time this round is over.

“The only positive was the second half reaction and the way the team went looking for a goal,” said the Coach.

Rafa Benitez concedes “the only positive was the second half reaction” as Inter fell to another heavy defeat at Lazio.

The Nerazzurri crashed 3-1 at the Olimpico last night and could slide down to mid-table by the time this round is over.

“The only positive was the second half reaction and the way the team went looking for a goal,” said the Coach.

“Lazio played well, but at the end Ivan Cordoba's chance could've made the difference. We wanted to control the game and find a balance, but they took the lead thanks to a marking error on a dead ball situation.

“Before that, Lazio didn't have great chances. It all went their way. Thiago Motta is still not 100 per cent match fit, so on the counter-attacks we were struggling because he lacks pace.”

This game was brought forward so Inter can better prepare for the Champions League, then the Club World Cup in Abu Dhabi.

“That is our most important appointment. We knew this match would be difficult because our heads are already on the Club World Cup. It's also important to do well at Werder Bremen, as first place in the Champions League group is better than second.

“It was also tricky to get goals because our highest scorers this season, Samuel Eto'o and Diego Milito, were unavailable due to bans and injury. We were unlucky.”

Dejan Stankovic limped off with a thigh problem during the 3-1 defeat to Lazio.

“He just didn't want to risk it, as he felt the muscle harden. We will evaluate with the doctor how Milito, Cristian Chivu and MacDonald Mariga are doing, as they are closest to making their comebacks.”