Lazio vs Bologna preview - Di Vaio optimistic ahead of Lazio trip

Posted Sunday, March 11, 2012 by PA

Bologna captain Marco Di Vaio is confident his side can extend their good run of form when they visit Lazio.

The Rossoblu outfit head to the Eternal City having conceded just one defeat in their last 10 league games.

Bologna followed their 1-0 triumph over Novara with a 1-1 draw against Juventus on Wednesday. The result lifted the Rossoblu to 14th place, seven points clear of the relegation zone.

Stefano Pioli's side has not lost away from home since December 18 and Di Vaio is upbeat about his team's chances in Rome this weekend.

"We are showing great heart and character," said Di Vaio, who started his career at his home-town club Lazio. "We must continue like this.

"We have had little time to rest but we will go to Rome determined to bring home three points."

Fans at the Stadio Olimpico can expect a thrilling game with Lazio also in fine fettle.

Lazio are riding a four-match winning run at home and they remain unbeaten at the Stadio Olimpico since November 16.

The Bianconceleste won 2-1 at Roma last weekend to sweep their city rivals this season.

Sunday's result lifted the Biancoceleste to third place, two points clear of Udinese, who are fourth.

Lazio players were greeted by around 7,000 fans in Monday's training session, much to the players' delight.

"It's nice to see Formello [Lazio's headquarters] full of people," Lazio defender Javier Garrido said. "I'm delighted.

"There should always be this atmosphere between the team and the fans."

Garrido, who has made just three league appearances for the Biancoceleste this season, is set to start on Sunday with Lazio coach Edy Reja having to do without six regular defenders.

Lionel Scaloni and Giuseppe Biava are suspended while Abdoulay Konko, Stefan Radu, Senad Lulic and Marius Stankevicius are all out injured.

The visitors are without Uruguay midfielder Diego Perez who serves a one-match ban.