Bartoli assesses season so far as Fiorentina come to town

Betty Bavagnoli’s side, competing in Serie A for the first time this season, have bounced back from a tough start to the season to establish themselves well inside the top half of the table as matters reach the halfway point – and the captain is hopeful that progression will continue over the second half of the campaign.

“Juventus, AC Milan and Fiorentina look like the strongest sides in the league right now,” Bartoli said.

“We dropped a few too many points at the beginning, but now we are starting to battle back. It’s a more interesting and compelling championship compared to recent seasons, and fun to be a part of.”

The Giallorosse are next in action on Sunday, as Fiorentina travel to Stadio Tre Fontane. La Viola won the league two seasons ago and have long been a powerhouse in women’s football, meaning it should be another important test of Bavagnoli’s growing side.

On Tuesday former professional player and current Sky Sport Italia pundit Katia Serra was at training to see for herself how the squad is doing.

“It has been an interesting challenge, because this is a squad that came together from nothing,” Serra told Roma TV.

“So you have to be patient, as everyone adjusts and gets to know each other.

“The team has improved a lot over the course of the season so far, so the game against Fiorentina will be an important test – a chance to see where the side is at, and where they can still improve.

“This season the league title was probably always going to be a bit of a stretch for Roma, but in the second half of the campaign I am sure they will improve even more and show that the side is on the right path.”