Roma less sexy but more functional

Today was my first sight of Roma under Claudio Ranieri.The first thing that struck me about the new Roma was a desire to defend. Out went the champagne football in came the six pack.Collectively Roma look solid in the 4-4-2.They now defend in numbers and at times today looked strong doing so.The sight was almost startling.Roma are not as dangerous in attack now but they are far more reliable defensivley. Simplicity of attitude along with form and function are now the Roma and Ranieri way.

Yet despite Ranieri's desire to simplify Roma's movements and add numbers to defence Napoli did manage to strike first. Ezekial Lavezzi was fantastic in his effort to pivot and fight off pressure,the Argentinian turned and scored a low screamer right under the outstretched Labont who came in to replace the injured Bertagnoli.

The only familiar pattern from the past that continues in the present is Francesco Totti who scored twice today.The first off of a Vucinic pass to Perrotta that deflected to Totti.And the Second Totti hammered home from the edge of the penalty area.

Roma have thrown away the sexy curves and paint job and decided to become a plain but very functional automobile.They don't seem capable of their old football under the pragmatic and demanding Ranieri. But that's ok. Results matter in our world.Despite the lack of sexiness.