AC Milan head coach Stefano Pioli believes that his side were fully deserving of the three points in the 1-0 win over Parma on Sunday.
The Rossoneri dominated for large parts of the game at the Stadio Ennio Tardini in damp conditions, but once again were wasteful in the final third and it looked as though they would be left to reflect on two more dropped points.
However, with just two minutes of normal time remaining Theo Hernandez reacted quickest to a rebound from a Giacomo Bonaventura shot, firing past Luigi Sepe in the Parma goal to send the 3,500 travelling fans into raptures.
The result means that Milan have moved into 11th place in the table, level on points with Torino in 10th and eight points away from the European places.
Pioli spoke to Sky Italia about the result after the game, and his words were transcribed by Football Italia.
“We had over 25 attempts on goal today, but we were clear today, the team knew how important the game was. Even if all matches are worth three points, some mean more than others,” Pioli said.
“We were coming off good performances, albeit not good results, and it was time to bring home the victory. We dominated possession, shots on goal, showed intelligence and determination, so we deserved it.
“At the same time, we must be realistic, as one game doesn’t fix everything. We have many more areas to improve, need to get as many points as possible before the Christmas break, because Milan cannot stay in this position in the table.”
One player who did disappoint again was Krzysztof Piatek, and he was substituted for Rafael Leao just after the hour mark.
“It’s true that Leao doesn’t fill the box like Kris, but we have others who can push forward from midfield. It’s natural that a striker isn’t happy when he doesn’t score goals. We are here to help him and he must allow us to help him.
“When I see players who train hard, have the right attitude and determination, I don’t close to door. I’ve had more positive sensations over the last two-three weeks, I see the players very motivated and taking responsibility for the situation.”
READ MORE: Ratings – Parma 0-1 AC Milan – Theo the difference maker, Piatek a ghost
