Roma beat Atalanta to move closer to Juventus

Rome, April 13 (IANS) Roma kept up pressure on Juventus Saturday as they beat Atalanta 3-1 to move within five points of the Serie A leaders.

Rodrigo Taddei opened the scoring before Adem Ljajic added the second and set up for Gervinho's goal. Giulio Migliaccio bagged a consolation for the Nerazzurri, Xinhua reported.

The win practically secured Roma's second spot with 15 points now between them and third-placed Napoli, who host Lazio Sunday.

Roma head coach Rudi Garcia cut an elated figure following the win.

"We could've avoided conceding the late goal and been more consistent throughout the game, but apart from that I saw a great Roma," he said.

"The team play and scoring opportunities were wonderful. I loved the second and third goals, which were created by the collective. That is hugely satisfying for a coach to see," he said.

Roma are now five points adrift of Juventus, who could restore their eight-point lead with a win at Udinese on Monday.

"It was very important to extend our lead over third place and to keep the title race alive," Garcia said.