Lazio got back on track tonight with a solid 2-0 victory over Torino that got rid of any bad taste left by Sunday’s defeat to Bologna. Maurizio Sarri‘s side overcame a physical and well drilled Granata side that held their own, especially in the first half.
Luis Alberto provided the magic in the second period with two assists as Matteo Guendouzi’s goal opened up the game. Alberto provided an excellent pass once again to allow Danilo Cataldi double the lead from the edge of the box. The only stain on this performance came when Mario Gila was sent off after collecting two yellow cards for silly challenges.
Let’s have a look at how the Biancocelesti got on in our Player Ratings as Alberto provides the magic:
Ivan Provedel – 6
The Lazio shotstopper was back to his usual self after Sunday’s slip up. Made three or four good saves especially one to deny Antonio Sanabria.
Adam Marusic – 5.5
The full-back was passed at times but he managed to get his job done without any glaring errors. Caught out at set pieces a few times but nothing major. Overall he was comfortable enough.
Alessio Romagnoli – 6.5
Broke the defensive line a few times but was much more cautious then his colleague in the centre of defence. No big chances came knocking at his door. This speaks volumes about the Italian defender. Very solid.
Mario Gila – 5
Good performance for the majority of the match tonight before he was sent off. Some great interceptions and wasn’t afraid to let Duvan Zapata know he was there. Battled and didn’t let much get past him for most of the evening but he ruined a good game with two very silly fouls on Zapata. Flew into a tackle on the Colombian and then was very fortunate not to give away a penalty with a lazy challenge. A shame.
Elseid Hysaj – 6
Couldn’t always keep up with the pace coming at him in the first half. Only concentrated on defensive duties tonight. No disasters but was replaced at half-time for the more offensive-minded Manuel Lazzari.
Danilo Cataldi – 7
The only player available to fill the defensive midfield role today and he was certainly up to the job. Worked really well with the others and got to grips with Torino’s physical play and kept it under control by constantly challenging. Took his goal really well, placed it right in the corner. Hard to argue he didn’t deserve it.
Matteo Guendouzi – 7
Thr first 45 minutes were difficult for the Frenchman. Struggled to make progress. Was shut down but broke free in the second period to become a big influence on Lazio’s game. Got into the physical battle with the Granata. Simple, confident finish broke the game open to Lazio’s advantage. The second goal originated from his hard work.
Luis Alberto – 7.5
The first half was too cagey and tight for him to crack open Torino’s defence. However Il Mago persevered and did what he does best to provide two assists, the second of which looked so effortless. His creativity was the catalyst.
Gustav Isaksen – 5.5
The Summer signing has been shining in the last few games but this was not his type of match. Facing such a physical side he found space to play in hard to come by which limited him severely.
Ciro Immobile – 6
Very frustrating first half as he tried to continue his good form. Made small mistakes but he endeavoured to put them right. Not able to overcome the strength of Torino’s defence. He did well to have the presence of mind to leave the ball for Guendouzi’s goal.
Felipe Anderson – 6.5
The brightest of the front three in the first half. He wasn’t afraid to make things happen even if they didn’t always result in chances. Tempo slowed slightly in the second half. Big effort.
Substitutes:
Manuel Lazzari – 6
Might not seem like much but his throw in started the action for the Biancocelesti’s second goal. More attack minded and was able to push his team forward. Job done.
Taty Castellanos – 5.5
Little impact on overall play. Only one shot on goal. More success in holding up the play rather than being part of chances.
Pedro – N/A
Nicolo Casale – N/A