Genoa coach Alberto Gilardino says their 1-1 draw against Bologna is worth a lot: “Those who played today did something extraordinary.” Il Grifone went ahead through Albert Gudmundsen, but a a late equaliser from Lorenzo De Silvestri in the 9th minute meant they had to settle for a point. Speaking with DAZN, Gilardino explained why he was happy with the performance of his players, saying the draw is worth a lot to them:
“First of all I want to congratulate the team. We’ve certainly been through some difficult days because of a virus that hit us, both the team and the staff. Those who played today did something extraordinary and I’m happy with the performance of the boys.
“We had an excellent first half, in the second Bologna deserved more and I think the most fair result is the draw. Let’s give continuity in attitude and performance. This draw is worth a lot. Last-minute absentees? Bani, De Winter and Puscas yes. Thorsby had a muscle problem.
“Those who played tonight hadn’t played for a long time, like Vogliacco who had a great game. Those who stayed on the pitch for 97 minutes did something extraordinary and we knew the game would bring sacrifice. For us tonight was an important step.
“Messias’ unusual position? Junior can play anywhere and if he’s physically fit he has great skills, the whole team performed in the best way. At times we could have handled the ball better, but then we finished on a high with the post on Gudmundsson’s free kick. That is the will of the team, that is the will to never give up.
“I am happy with the progress of Gudmundsson, of Frendrup, of Dragusin. Like them also other players. I have found guys with a great willingness to work and so that gives you an edge in training.
“Dragusin? Radu is a player who has grown tremendously because he has always had the physical ability. Radu is a complete player and a European player. It’s normal that there are so many market rumours about him because he’s a type of player you rarely find. There are few defenders of this type.
“Goals in the last minutes? This is a difficult situation to coach, we are aware of it. Tonight I think it was more a reward for Bologna’s second-half performance than a demerit for some mistake on our part. The second half was more Bologna’s, but in the first half we did very well. As far as I’m concerned the draw is fair. The goals in the last minutes are circumstances, situations, and we have to think about working on other things while keeping our attention high.”
