Pettenuzzo: We'll keep fighting for second spot

The Giallorosse came from behind twice at Stadio Tre Fontane to secure a potentially-vital draw against La Viola, a result that gives Betty Bavagnoli’s group continued hope in the race for a top-two finish – and qualification for next season’s Champions League.

With Roma having lost a heartbreaker against AC Milan the week prior – throwing away a two-goal lead – Pettenuzzo believes the nature of their display on Sunday was important.

“After the Milan game we needed to send a message to everyone, a strong message, to show that we are still here and we still believe in what we are doing,” she said

“So I think we were able to do that, which is so important.”

She added: “The targets remain the same as they always were. Clearly the task is a bit tougher now, because we’ve dropped points and have lost the head-to-head against Milan – but we are still confident, our destiny is in our hands and we will keep battling for the second spot that we want.”

Pettenuzzo, a summer signing from Sassuolo, is enjoying her new life in the Italian capital – but knows she and the team still have a lot of growing and developing to do.

“I’m enjoying myself this season; with the team, the staff and the coach,” she said.

“It’s clear that Roma is a serious, professional outfit – everything is well organised, when we get to the pitch we need only think about our training and that always helps us do our best.

“During the season we’ve dropped points we shouldn’t have. I think about the game against Florentia, which we should have won, or the game against Milan – where we threw it away in the final 20 minutes. We need to manage games better, and see them out to make sure we don’t drop crucial points.”

The Giallorosse continue their league campaign this Sunday, as they travel to face Serie A surprise package Empoli.

“Empoli have come up from Serie B and I don’t think anyone expected them to be doing so well,” Pettenuzzo said.

“They are eighth in the league and a lot of sides have dropped points against them, or found it difficult to beat them at their place. So it won’t be easy – we have to be strong and aggressive and keep the rhythm intense.”