Dave Taylor picks his best XI after another surprising set of results in the midweek round.
Morgan De Sanctis [Napoli]
Was alert all match and needed to be at times. Especially strong when pulling off a double save, first from Josip Ilic’s shot then moments later in blocking a diving header from Abel Hernandez on the line. Integral.
Jonathan [Parma]
Dave Taylor picks his best XI after another surprising set of results in the midweek round.
Morgan De Sanctis [Napoli]
Was alert all match and needed to be at times. Especially strong when pulling off a double save, first from Josip Ilic’s shot then moments later in blocking a diving header from Abel Hernandez on the line. Integral.
Jonathan [Parma]
Outshone his former hero Maicon on Wednesday, proving to be the greatest menace going forward from full-back. Launched several attacks down the right and almost scored when his speed took advantage of a Maicon mix-up. Imposing.
Andrea Barzagli [Juventus]
Once again a top performance, not that it should be of any surprise. Showed he is one of Italy’s finest defensive talents and kept the normally effusive Luis Muriel at arm’s length. Commanding.
Francesco Acerbi [Chievo]
Was awesomely solid throughout making several crucial tackles and kept the Roma forwards, especially Fabio Borini, completely quiet. His superb turn of pace saw him easily intercept anything that the visitors could throw at the home defence. Quicksilver.
Andrea Rossi [Siena]
Presented Mattia Destro with a superb assist and continually worried Lazio down the left. Always an outlet for any counter attacking that Siena attempted and was a real pain in the neck for the hosts. Inspiring.
Jonathan Biabiany [Parma]
The former Inter midfielder had the last laugh with his unstoppable speed down the wing. There was no hiding his delight at scoring after he drew Julio Cesar out before calmly rounding him to slot the ball home. Admirable.
Gaston Ramirez [Bologna]
Always looking to set up goals and start attacks. It was his wicked left-footed curler that flew past ‘keeper Juan Carrizo to shock the home crowd. Also had another atomic left-footer stopped by Carrizo. Incontestable.
Sebastian Giovinco [Parma]
At the heart of everything that Parma did and was absolutely lethal in the second half. Played a massive part in the first two goals before gliding through the middle of the defence for his strike past Julio Cesar. Unstoppable.
Riccardo Montolivo [Fiorentina]
With the Viola missing Stevan Jovetic, the Italian stood up to the plate. Inspired the team with his organising against Novara and courageously converted the penalty. Had another effort blocked before grabbing the equaliser with a powerful curler, then almost scored a third. Formidable.
Rodrigo Palacio [Genoa]
Took only 11 minutes to open the scoring as his reaction at a corner saw him coolly drive the ball home. Seemed to be the only Genoa player ready to grit his teeth, until the fabulous Bosko Jankovic arrived. Indomitable.
Goran Pandev [Napoli]
Was everywhere and won the penalty Edinson Cavani scored before setting up Marek Hamsik’s goal with a wonderfully worked flick, right into the path of the Slovak, who then converted with ease. Also had a couple of efforts saved by Emiliano Viviano. Outstanding.