Ventura believes in Bari

Posted Sunday, January 30, 2011 by PA

Bari coach Giampiero Ventura is confident his struggling side have the quality to end a poor run of form when they visit Cagliari.

Ventura's team lie at the foot of the standings, with just one win in its last 16 matches.

"Things are not going well for us but the team has the quality to get out of this situation," Ventura said.

"I spoke to the team after last weekend's 2-0 defeat to Napoli. Unfortunately, this is a period in which we are not able to win.

"I urged the players to find the maximum focus and determination for our next game.

"The players need to be more aggressive and eager to win.

"I have received a positive response from them and everyone believes that this team can defend its Serie A status by season's end.

"The game on Sunday is very important and we cannot fail."

Ventura has reason to be concerned as last weekend's loss left his side six points behind safety.

The Galletti have mustered just 14 points in 21 games and have the worst attack in the competition with just 13 goals scored.

Bari can expect a tough test in Sardinia with Cagliari having won three of their last four games at the Sant' Elia stadium.

The hosts are eager to bounce back from last weekend's 3-0 defeat at Roma that dropped Roberto Donadoni's side to 10th in the standings.

"I think we gave a little too much respect to the opposition and with a little more conviction we could have gone home with a better result," Donadoni said. "In this game we were less ferocious than before and we need to bring out our best in every game."

Cagliari will be without midfield pair Daniele Conti and Radja Nainggolan, both serving a one-match ban.