Roma holds off Palermo

Palermo, Italy – A third-minute goal from Fabio Borini was 0 win over Palermo at the Renzo Barbera on Saturday.

Both teams entered the match in poor form having lost three of the past four games. But Roma started quickly as Erik Lamela collected a weak clearance from Ezequiel Munoz near the edge of the penalty area and threaded a pass into the box for Borini, who slotted home a left-footed shot to put Roma up early.

Palermo responded well and tested goalkeeper Bogdan Lobont shortly before the break as a powerful effort from Eran Zahavi needed to be tipped over the crossbar.

Lobont was a bit fortunate to keep out a shot from Fabrizio Miccoli 20 minutes from time as the striker shot straight into the 'keeper with Lobont laying on the ground after challenging for a cross.

Munoz called Lobont into action in the 84th with a shot on the turn that was kept out by a good reaction stop, while Roma got a rare look at goal a few minutes later with Marquinho rolling a shot just wide.

The home side's rally fell short, however, and Roma's hopes of grabbing a European place got a little boost.