After having concluded with satisfaction the passage to the quarter-finals of the Italian Cup, where the Pythagoreans will find Potenza (who won over the Audace Cerignola), Crotone already has their sights set on the championship: on Saturday at 5.30pm Giugliano will arrive at the “Scida”. Emilio Longo enjoys a qualification that is worth much more than just the result. The coach asked for a characterful response from his team, and he got it.
«I take the reaction home with me – claims Longo -. The ability to overturn and always stay in the game. The spirit and desire of a team that has never fallen apart, not even in difficult moments.” The second half, in terms of intensity and continuity, was the fruit of that warrior spirit that Longo requires of his players. His inclusion in the second half in May had an impact on his quality, but the coach extends the credit to the entire group. «The applause is for everyone – he underlines -. A special mention for Gallo, who played a race of absolute value, and for Calvano. I also really liked the replacements, the turnaround is the result of collective will.”
A significant passage also concerns those who have found less space so far: «Ricci was ready for his first ownership, I’m also happy with Leo: watching him train is a spectacle in terms of application and availability. He was able to defend and offend.” The comeback victory, therefore, is the reflection of a team that is rediscovering compactness, identity and conviction. Longo looks ahead with confidence. «The group always has the possibility to express itself as in the second half. We need to increase strength, motivation and continuity. Through play – he concludes – we can get far. The kids are demonstrating desire, availability and specific weight.”
