Lazio vs Parma preview - Colomba targets Parma survival
Posted Sunday, April 10, 2011 by PA
New Parma coach Franco Colomba has set his sights on masterminding a great escape for the Gialloblu over the last seven games of the season.
Colomba, who replaced Pasquale Marino after Parma's 2-1 home defeat by bottom side Bari last time out, will take the team to Rome to face Lazio on Sunday looking to kickstart their survival bid.
Parma have won just one of their last 10 league games and are just two places and two points above the drop zone.
"It's surprising to see a team like Parma in 16th position in the standings," said Colomba.
"We will try to change this trend in order to achieve our aim which is to defend our Serie A status.
"At this time we need to join forces, be united and step up to the challenge.
"We have little time, hence, we need to take this journey together, with the help of the fans and of the team.
"I believe we have the right cards to defend our status."
Parma will be bolstered by the return of Daniele Galloppa, Blerim Dzemaili, Francesco Valiani and Sebastian Giovinco from suspension.
Rivals Lazio go into the encounter at the Stadio Olimpico on the back of a 4-3 loss at Napoli, which marked their second defeat in three games.
The outcome left the Romans in fifth place, two points behind Udinese, who hold the last Champions League qualifying spot.
With Udinese hosting sixth-placed Roma on Saturday, Edy Reja's side will have a further motivation to beat Parma.
"Fourth spot is not far away, and with the support of our fans, we can finish in that position," said Lazio midfielder Stefano Mauri.
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