Brescia vs Lazio preview - Lazio look to regain spark

Posted Sunday, February 13, 2011 by PA

Lazio's season has lost some of its lustre since the turn of the year but a win at Brescia on Sunday would be a boost in confidence for the Biancoceleste.

The Romans were Serie A title contenders for much of the early part of the campaign, but a slump in form has seen them reconsider their aims.

A Europa League berth is now the objective, according to Lazio defender Guglielmo Stendardo.

"I honestly believe the Champions League is out of our reach," he said. "There are other teams who are more equipped than we are to finish in the top four.

"For us to end the season in the top six positions would already be an important result."

Lazio have won just two games this year and visit Brescia on the back of a 1-1 draw against Chievo.

The outcome left Lazio holding onto fourth place - the last Champions League qualifying spot - but allowed in-form Palermo and Udinese to close the gap on them to just two points.

Rivals Brescia will have an added motivation to beat Lazio on Sunday, knowing a win would see the Rondinelle climb out of the relegation zone.

Last weekend's 2-0 triumph over Bari lifted Brescia to 18th place - just one point and one place behind Catania, who hold the last position of safety.

The result was their second win in eight games and marked coach Giuseppe Iachini's first triumph since replacing Mario Beretta last month.

"We have to continue to grow," said Iachini. "But we are on the right path.

"This win no doubt gives us a big boost in confidence for our next games."