With only ten minutes remaining, it appeared as if Roma were headed for a second consecutive defeat as they found themselves losing 1-0 to bottom of the table Salernitana.

Even though they’ve already got one foot in Serie B, the Salerno-side were determined to cause Roma problems this evening and they nearly succeeded in doing so. However, two late goals from Carles Perez and Chris Smalling saved the Giallorossi and extended their unbeaten run in Serie A.

The victory also gives Jose Mourinho’s a much-needed confidence boost ahead of a crucial week as they face Bodø/Glimt and Napoli on Thursday and Monday.

Playing in front a packed stadium, the Giallorossi clearly struggled with fatigued and appeared disjointed in the final third without the presence of captain Lorenzo Pellegrini. 

When asked about his team’s performance, Mourinho credited the bench for securing the victory. 

“Clearly we were tired tonight, it’s not easy playing on Thursday evening then on Sunday. I’m sure (Atalanta manager) Gasperini agrees,” he told DAZN.

“We rotated a few players in the starting formation before we brought on others in the second half and they gave us great energy.”

“Ultimately, though, I think we deserved to win because were the team playing for the victory, even if we might not have played well.”

He added, “They gave us problems, but ultimately we were the ones playing until the very last moments.”