Football
19y

Soccer-Milan won't worry about Juve, says Ancelotti

ROME, March 20 - AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti
urged his players to remain entirely focused on their own
performances after Sunday's 2-0 win over AS Roma maintained
their lead at the top of Serie A.

The result gave the champions 66 points from 29 matches,
equal on points, but with a better goal difference, than title
rivals Juventus, who beat Reggina 1-0 on Saturday.

"This wasn't a reply to what Juve did. It was another win --
that's all," said Ancelotti.

"We mustn't concern ourselves with what Juve are doing. For
us the important thing is to keep doing what we're doing and
winning as many matches as possible."

Milan went ahead with a header by Hernan Crespo just after
the hour. Midfielder Andrea Pirlo doubled their lead from the
penalty spot after Christian Panucci handled a Crespo header.

Victory represented a quick return to form for Milan, whose
run of nine consecutive wins ended in dramatic fashion when they
lost 4-1 in a midweek Italian Cup match against Udinese.

Milan had to work hard for victory against a determined Roma
side playing its first Serie A match under new coach Bruno
Conti, who replaced Luigi Del Neri on Monday.

"It was difficult at the start because we didn't play to our
usual level. Roma played well, they were fast and very
positive," said Ancelotti.

"To be honest, I expected them to be a little more
defensive.

"We did better in the second half. We kept possession,
forced them to chase the ball a bit and tire themselves out."

Conti said he was pleased with his team's performance as
they continue their challenge for a place in Europe next season.

"Sure, I'm disappointed by the result, but I was also
relieved to see a very good display for the first 30 minutes,"
he said.

"We dropped our heads a little after their first goal and
there's still a lot of work to do, especially from a
psychological point of view, but overall I'm happy with what I
saw on the pitch".

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