Stefano Pioli insists both Chievo and Roma were equally prepared for the dreadful playing field in Verona.
Recent rain and snow had left the pitch covered in mud at the Bentegodi, even when sand was put down to soak up the moisture.
“Roma knew the state of the pitch would take away from their quality and passing movement, so they fielded a more muscular side,” pointed out Pioli after that 2-2 draw.
“We tried to counter them ball for ball. Roma did better in the first half, we were clearly the stronger side in the second.
Stefano Pioli insists both Chievo and Roma were equally prepared for the dreadful playing field in Verona.
Recent rain and snow had left the pitch covered in mud at the Bentegodi, even when sand was put down to soak up the moisture.
“Roma knew the state of the pitch would take away from their quality and passing movement, so they fielded a more muscular side,” pointed out Pioli after that 2-2 draw.
“We tried to counter them ball for ball. Roma did better in the first half, we were clearly the stronger side in the second.
“They played Adriano to act as a marker up front, so they could go past the midfield and get him to hold up the ball. I thought he had a good game.”
The Flying Donkeys were 2-0 down, but fought back for a point, while they beat Inter here 2-1 in their last home game.
“We had a bad start to the season on home turf, but have turned the trend around. The team is playing well and, despite the state of the pitch, with a certain quality. I'm convinced we will achieve our objectives this season.”
Daniele De Rossi was sent off in the final minutes and shouted at Pioli as he walked towards the tunnel.
“He was complaining about the state of the pitch, as if it was our fault. We don't like playing on this surface either, but the referee decided we had to continue.
“I repeat that both teams figured out how to adapt. Usually people say this sort of surface takes away from the spectacle of a game, but I found it entertaining with many scoring opportunities and the kind of vigorous tackling that you usually don't see in Serie A.”