SPAL 0 Roma 3: Eusebio Di Francesco’s side go three points clear of Lazio as Giallorossi ring changes ahead of Liverpool clash
Francesco Vicari scored a first half own goal, before Radja Nainggolan and Patrik Schick netted in the second period
ROMA enjoyed the perfect preparation for Tuesday’s Champions League showdown with Liverpool here in north-east Italy.
They kept alive their hopes of a top four finish in Serie A with a comfortable, confidence-boosting win and did not appear to suffer any injuries.
Boss Eusebio Di Francesco, with one eye on the trip to Anfield, also rested a number of key players with star striker Edin Dzeko and skipper Daniele Di Rossi remaining on the bench throughout.
Former Manchester City defender Aleksandar Kolarov was left out with a muscle problem.
But Roma could not have hoped for an easier afternoon in the 27C sunshine. Had it not been for home keeper Alex Meret, the scoreline could have been much bigger.
Fighting for their lives at the bottom, SPAL – who only reformed in Serie D six years ago - started strongly and felt they should have had a penalty when home captain Mirco Antenucci seemed to be bundled over by former Spurs defender Federico Fazio.
Roma improved, they took the lead in the 33rd minute and it was plain sailing after that.
SPAL’s Francesco Vicari, under pressure from Kevin Strootman, turned Lorenzo Pellegrini’s cross into his own net.
Roma made it 2-0 when the impressive Radja Nainggolan fired towards the corner although Czech striker Patrik Schick appeared to get a faint touch.
On the hour, it was 3-0 and this one was definitely Schick’s with a firm header.
Roma's 1600 fans, sat in a temporary stand behind the goal, know they will face a far tougher test at Anfield on Tuesday.
