Andressa savours return as Bavagnoli praises players

Roma Women got their first win of the season at Trigoria at the weekend, with Andressa and substitute Paloma Lazaro scoring the second half goals to finally dispatch the visitors, who defended doggedly for large parts of the match.

Looking to rebound after last weekend’s draw with Sassuolo, the Giallorosse certainly created plenty of chances – although it was only Andressa’s emphatic penalty (after Lazaro had been fouled) that finally opened up the game.

“I’m pleased with the performance, it was a quality performance,” Bavagnoli said.

“I asked the girls for a response [after last week] and to pay attention to every detail, and they were really good in that respect. There are always things to improve on but what we needed to do – in terms of our mental approach and our attitude – we did.”

On the wastefulness in front of goal, she added: “We will go away and analyse that. We created a lot of openings, at least five good chances, but we weren’t able to make the most of them and we will have to work on that. However, we put ourselves in the right positions at the right time and that is important.”

Lazaro’s display was certainly the notable element of the afternoon – the summer arrival from Fiorentina overcoming some injury concerns in the week to make a decisive contribution off the bench.

“We knew all about her before – we tried to sign because we know exactly the qualities she has,” Bavagnoli added.

“Yesterday we didn’t think she would be able to play but, once she came on, we all saw her ability and her personality. I’m pleased to have seen her play so well in the second half.”

The other hero, of course, was Andressa – who started the game and lasted 70 minutes, despite only returning from Brazil on the eve of the season.

“We created a lot of chances but unfortunately we didn’t score so many goals,” the No. 7 said.

“Nevertheless the main thing is to get the three points and now we will have to rest up and think about Empoli, which will be a tough game.”

She added: “I am so happy to be back and playing for this team, that has shown me so much love. I missed being with my teammates so much when I was back in Brazil.

“We need to keep improving in every aspect, especially in our goalscoring. Personally speaking, I need to improve my fitness – I’ve only had a few training sessions so far.