Torino vs Genoa preview - Ventura hopes for change in fortune

Posted Wednesday, May 08, 2013 by PA

Torino coach Giampiero Ventura hopes his side's fortunes will take a turn for the better when they host Genoa at the Stadio Olimpico, knowing victory would practically secure their place in Serie A for a second successive season.

The Granata could have assured their top-flight status over the past two weeks, but lost against Juventus and AC Milan in matches they were close to winning.

"In the past few weeks, we have let slip what could have made it an extraordinary season," he said.

"Instead, here we are talking about another undeserved defeat at the end of a surreal game.

"We silenced the San Siro, dominating the game and getting in front of their goalkeeper five times, and we only conceded Milan one dangerous shot.

"The fact is, though, that we lost once again. Maybe we could do with a pilgrimage to Lourdes."

Genoa come into the game in a much better frame of mind after a 4-1 win over Pescara at the weekend put them three-points above the relegation zone.

However, their coach Davide Ballardini has warned that the job has not yet been done and that Wednesday's opponents are an opponent to be wary of.

"Torino are a solid side," he said. "They have played a great season so far and made things difficult even for the biggest sides."

Marco Borriello's return to form in recent matches has helped lift the Rossoblu away from the relegation zone and Ballardini may well have finally found the best blend for his forwards with Antonio Floro Flores.

"I am delighted with the attackers I have got," he added.