Alexander Blessin believes Genoa have rediscovered the ‘intensity’ they needed against Milan and must continue that approach in the upcoming relegation battles.
The Grifone were beaten 2-0 at San Siro by the Serie A leaders, a third consecutive defeat, decided by an early Rafael Leao volley at the back post and late Junior Messias strike.
“I think we started good, after 11 minutes it’s not nice to concede against a top team, but our structure was good,” Blessin told DAZN.
“We won many midfield duels, but the problem was that our deep runs weren’t good enough to create chances. It’s difficult to come back, but I am otherwise really happy with the performance.
“At this moment I saw many 50-50 fights where the referee made the decision for Milan. I always want fair play, but in many situations there was always the decision for Milan. Having said that, congratulations to Milan, it was a deserved win.”
Serie A | Milan 2-0 Genoa: Leao and Messias end goal drought
Although it was a third consecutive defeat without finding the net for Genoa, Blessin saw improvements from the losses against Verona and Lazio.
“If we continue to play like this, it can only be the way we want to play, with aggression and determination. We can lose games, but it’s better if we play like this rather than the last two games.
“We started as a Christmas Tree, had problems doubling up with the wing-backs and they liked to dribble. We changed to a 4-2-3-1 after 25 minutes and I think the structure was better.
“The problem was not winning the ball in midfield positions, but the question is why did we not create more space with deep runs or create chances? We have to do that better for next time.”
There is a massive relegation dogfight coming up against Cagliari and Blessin laughed when asked if the pressure was on.
“We always have pressure! It’s a six-point game next week against Cagliari, so we will have a little bit more possession, but I am positive that if we show the same intensity and willingness to win the duels that we did today, we can do well.
“The stadium will be full, we’ll have the 12th man behind our backs to help us find the route.”