Dreams Of Beating Juventus - Page 14 - FMFormation.net - Football Manager

Tanel · 12-08-07, 12:09 PM

Genoa - Torino

17th of September 2008
Luigi Ferraris, Genova
Italian Serie A 2008/2009; Week 3

87'

Simone Padoin

Match Highlights (4:53)

Another late win through Simone Padoin's goal gave Torino quite a reason to worry about as they've scored just two goals in their opening matches against newly promoted teams.

Season had started nicely for Torino, 1:3 loss to Barcelona came with a brave display and dominant game saw them beat Livorno only by goal to nil. They hoped to show a little bit more flair in their attack now as they went to play Genoa, trying to follow their footsteps and become major once again, but Andrea Mei, Roberto Stellone, Cedric Konan and Simone Barone had to spend the game on sidelines.

Though Elvis Abbruscato's first start of the season gave the fans something to smile about. Despite playing one less game, Torino sat ahead of Genoa in the table as the home-side could put names like Gabriel Milito, Massimo Ambrosini and Luciano Figueroa on the pitch.

It didn't stop Torino from taking a first serious shot at the goal just after 12 seconds as Elvis Abbruscato received the ball on the edge of the area, but his shot was caught by Rubinho.

Alessandro Rosina tried his luck from a close-range free-kick, but his shot flew over the top corner.

Rubinho produced a fine save on a rising Simone Padoin shot that was directed towards the top corner while Torino's pressure continued with Silva heading Marco Pisano's cross over the top corner.

Torino was having similar game like against Livorno and couldn't get the ball into the back of the net. Riccardo Montolivo also headed over while Silva's curling effort was brilliantly tipped wide at far post by Rubinho.

Injured Rolando Bianchi was replaced by Alexis Sanchez at half-time. Padoin was having a fabulous match and his effort was followed by brilliant save by Rubinho.

Alessandro Rosina had to go off with an injury aswell and was replaced by Antonio Di Natale while surprising substitution saw Abbruscato head off for Lasse Qvist.

Massimo Ambrosinio shot wide from 23 meters with Genoa's first threatening shot in middle of the second half, but Padoin sent Montolivo's corner over from the edge of the area.

Galletti shot his free-kick from 20 meters wide of Torino's goal and Alexis Sanchez tried his luck from 25 meters at the other end, but it didn't trouble to Genoa goalkeeper as the ball flew wide.

Torino finally got the goal in 87th minute after using headless situation after a free-kick. Silva played a free-kick from 25 meters quickly behind defenders were Padoin picked it up and finished with a strong shot under bar.

24-year old Padoin capped off his amazing display

Torino almost doubled the lead twice in final minutes, but Alexis Sanchez got two good efforts saved by Genoa's only life-line Rubinho. First he saw his close range shot from Di Natale's cross tipped wide and then he ran through Genoa's defence, only to be denied one on one.

In the end, it was fine piece of football from Torino, but boss Tanel Tursk wasn't happy, shaking his head after the final whistle and heading off to the dressing room with disappointing face.

Torino: 1-Marcelo Grohe; 4-Marco Andreolli, 5-Gabriel Tamas, 22-Daniele Bonera, 6-Marco Pisano; 12-Simone Padoin, 8-Silva; 10-Alessandro Rosina (52' 13-Antonio Di Natale), 16-Riccardo Montolivo; 9-Rolando Bianchi (45' 21-Alexis Sanchez), 19-Elvis Abbruscato (52' 18-Lasse Qvist)

Cautioned

: 52' Alexis Sanchez

Other Results

Ascoli 0:0 Palermo
Brescia 0:0 Catania
Fiorentina 2:0 Empoli
Inter 1:0 Sampdoria
Juventus 0:2 Lazio
Livorno 0:1 Milan
Napoli 1:0 Siena
Roma 4:1 Parma
Udinese 2:1 Chievo

Torino Position: 8th

Visit Torino Channel FM at YouTube

Tanel · 12-08-07, 01:50 PM

Torino - Roma

20th of September 2008
Stadio Grande Torino, Turin
Italian Serie A 2008/2009; Week 4

1' 81'

Elvis Abbruscato, 45+3'

Riccardo Montolivo - 35'

Nilmar

Match Highlights (6:12)

Torino finally started scoring in a tough fight with Roma as Elvis Abbruscato grabbed a brace, including a goal after just 17 seconds.

Torino went against Roma with a slightly fresh-looking squad, Alessandro Rosina was injured alongside Andrea Mei. Antonio Di Natale replaced him in line-up, but luckily for Granata, central midfielder Simone Barone returned from suspension, but also pushed impressive Simone Padoin to bench.

Roma was without star players like Eduardo and Totti, but still were looking very strong in their last two games, beating Genoa 5:1 and Parma 4:1.

Torino got off to amazing match in front of the home fans, quick attack saw Simone Barone's shot from edge of the finger-tipped back to the pitch by Marco Amelia, but Elvis Abbruscato headed the ball into the net with ease.

Roma got a great chance to equalize six minutes later, Daniele De Rossi was left totally unmarked in middle of the area and long ball found him, luckily Marcelo Grohe did his job brilliantly, closing the vice-captain of Roma down brilliantly.

De Rossi also tried with a shot form edge of the area, but that flew over the far post.

Antonio Di Natale gave a fine pass for Silva's curling shot from edge of the area which was over Amelia's far top corner.

Ten minutes before the break Roma got an equalizer. Marco Cassetti combined brilliantly with Nilmar before going on a run down the wing and crossing the ball back to the Brazilian who tapped in at near post.

Rolando Bianchi's ball loss in his own half almost allowed Cassetti to make it two goals in two minutes, but the right midfielder shot over from distance.

Bianchi then tried to make up for his mistake, but his shot came off Mexes leg and went for corner. From resulting corner Nilmar was allowed a free run and luckily for Torino, his shot got saved by Grohe.

And with huge amount of time added to the first half, Torino received a dangerous free-kick in final minute as Silva was fouled on the edge of the area. Montolivo stepped up and curled it through the wall and into the net for his first ever Torino goal.

Montolivo hadn't been able to produce his pre-season form into the real season until now.

With encouraging last minute goal scored in first half, Torino went into the break happily and made no substitutions.

Though Roma looked much more motivated and enjoyed two fine chances in first few minutes. Riccardo Taddei's volley at far post needed a spectacular save from Marcelo Grohe. And also Cassetti's long range shot flying under the bar was stopped by Torino's Brazilian goalkeeping ace.

Simone Padoin and Alexis Sanchez were brought in but it was Roma with the only chance in next 10 minutes, Daniele De Rossi slamming a shot over the bar after receiving a throw-in.

Alexandre Bonnet came on for Antonio Di Natale to make his Torino debut, but bad news came just minutes later, Marco Pisano couldn't continue with an ankle injury.

Though Torino seemed to receive new motivation from playing with 10-men. Montolivo's free-kick found Daniele Bonera in the area, but center-backs shot ballooned over the bar.

'Montolo' continued to impress and his cross found Sanchez in the 6-yard box, but Chilean couldn't believe he was denied a goal when Amelia made one of the best saves you'll see all season long. Sanchez did absolutely everything brilliantly, turning around his marker with the ball and then smashing a precise shot under the bar, but somehow Amelia managed to bring it out.

Torino eventually got the goal, Montolivo was again involved, his free-kick found Abbruscato in the area and the striker sent a low finish into far corner and this time Amelia didn't have any chance to save it.

Alexey Yeremenko came on as substitute but his volley flew miles wide before he should've scored 3-2 in final minute. Bonera made a very bad interception to Alberto Aquilani pass that allowed Yeremenko to go one on one, but his bad finish was denied by Grohe.

Victory raised Torino to fourth position and with game in hand, they can rise to first place as with all wins they are just one point behind leader.

Torino: 1-Marcelo Grohe; 4-Marco Andreolli, 5-Gabriel Tamas, 22-Daniele Bonera, 6-Marco Pisano; 7-Simone Barone (56' 12-Simone Padoin), 8-Silva; 13-Antonio Di Natale (68' 15-Alexandre Bonnet), 16-Riccardo Montolivo; 9-Rolando Bianchi (56' 21-Alexis Sanchez), 19-Elvis Abbruscato

Cautioned : 7' Daniele Bonera, 28' Silva

Other Results

Milan 2:0 Genoa
Siena 1:1 Brescia
Lazio 1:1 Inter
Palermo 3:0 Napoli
Sampdoria 2:0 Ascoli
Chievo 0:1 Livorno
Catania 0:0 Fiorentina
Empoli 1:3 Udinese
Parma 0:1 Juventus

Torino Position: 4th

Visit Torino Channel FM at YouTube

Tanel · 13-08-07, 07:55 PM

Torino - Sporting

23rd of September 2008
Stadio Grande Torino, Turin
Champions League 2008/2009; Group E; Game 2

30'

Rolando Bianchi, 72'

Elvis Abbruscato - 17' (OG)

Gabriel Tamas

Match Highlights (4:30)

Stadio Grande Torino welcomed Champions League for the first time, counting out qualifying game with Manchester United last season, successfully as home side won 2:1 with Elvis Abbruscato netting the winner.

Torino was in middle of slight problems, Alessandro Rosina, Andrea Mei and Marco Pisano were all injured to give manager Tanel Tursk to think about heading to the match. He picked Antonio Di Natale and Simone Padoin to the first team, while Rolando Bianchi continued to parter Elvis Abbruscato upfront, despite his unsuccessful start to the Granata career.

Sporting game from a strong six match unbeaten run and from seven straight wins in Bwin league for this match as Torino needed a victory to keep on challenging for the place in knock-out stages of the Champions League.

Torino continued with their usual quick chance style, Silva picked up Bianchi free behind defenders, but former Reggina shot was saved.

Gabriel Tamas saw his free-kick from good position also denied by veteran Portuguese goalkeeper Ricardo though even more spectacular save was to follow from the former Portuguese number one.

Scramble in the box made ball fall to Silva on the edge of the area, who recently shockingly accepted a call-up by Portuguese national team and made his debut, as the midfielder sent a trademark volley towards the empty net, but Ricardo somehow managed to retain it with a fabulous flying save.

Torino's early pressure didn't pay off and they fell down in unlucky circumstances. Josip Simunic deflection took an unlucky deflection off Tamas and the ball flew low into Torino goal.

Almost another own-goal came just two minutes later, but Marcelo Grohe managed to catch Daniele Bonera's deflection from the edge of the area.

Renato shot his free-kick wide while Simone Barone's powerful long range effort took a fine save out of Ricardo once more.

Nani was in the end of a bad Grohe goal-kick and went on a run, but eventually having his shot from 25 meters out tipped over bar by Grohe.

Though few minutes later Torino finally broke the duck, Riccardo Montolivo's pass found Bianchi and the striker went past Machado before smashing a powerful effort under the bar to send home fans into raptures.

Rolando Bianchi scored a fine goal

Amazing Andreolli's long ball fell to Rolando Bianchi who squared it forward to Elvis Abbruscato but the Roman had his shot saved and Silva managed to volley the ball wide of the empty net.

Montolivo's free-kick flew over the bar and at half-time, Alexis Sanchez replaced Antonio Di Natale.

Gabriel Tamas banged Simone Padoin's low free-kick over the bar and minutes after, Riccardo Montolivo limped off with an injury to be replaced by Alexandre Bonnet and Lasse Qvist was brought on for goalscorer Bianchi.

Qvist almost got a quick goal, but his curling effort from Andreolli's free-kick flew wide.

Nani's weak shot at near post was easily caught by Grohe and minutes later, Torino grabbed the well deserved lead. Simone Padoin's cross was headed in by Abbruscato for his fourth goal in as many games.

Renato and Abbruscato both saw their efforts fly over the bar later in the match as Torino received their first ever Champions League victory and rose to second place in group rankings.

Torino: 1-Marcelo Grohe; 4-Marco Andreolli, 5-Gabriel Tamas, 22-Daniele Bonera, 12-Simone Padoin; 7-Simone Barone, 8-Silva; 13-Antonio Di Natale (45' 21-Alexis Sanchez), 16-Riccardo Montolivo (56' 15-Alexandre Bonnet); 9-Rolando Bianchi (56' 18-Lasse Qvist), 19-Elvis Abbruscato

Cautioned : None

Other Results

Werder Bremen 0:0 Barcelona

Torino Position: 2nd

Visit Torino Channel FM at YouTube

Tanel · 13-08-07, 09:13 PM

Torino boss unhappy

26th of September, Turin - In a pre-match press conference ahead of game with Parma, Torino manager Tanel Tursk stated that he's very unhappy with his team this season.

Bianchi is one of the players not to play up to his full potential

Torino has won six of their seven games in dominant displays, but their manager is unhappy with his things play, stating that they don't execute everything like they should.

"In pre-season all seemed to fine. Even in the Supercup it seemed perfect. But since then, I don't know. We play a lot differently from before. Our style of play has changed even without me knowing about it," he was disappointed with his squad.

"We played free-flowing and short passes, like I wanted, now we don't. I've tried to give new refreshed directions to players every game, but they find it hard to execute during the game. Some players have been below par, but I won't name anyone. They know who they are and they know what they have to change," he told.

"We waste too much opportunities upfront. In easy places, we give the goalkeeper a chance to do a save which we shouldn't. And we give away too many chances for my likening. This team can play a lot better and hopefully we can put all cards on the table at one point this season and show the world that Torino is everything you'd want from a team. At the moment you don't get the feeling when you watch us," he told.

Tanel · 14-08-07, 09:07 AM

Torino - Parma

28th of September 2008
Stadio Grande Torino, Turin
Italian Serie A 2008/2009; Week 5

56'

Alexis Sanchez, 82'

Elvis Abbruscato

Match Highlights (7:55)

Torino continued their winning streak with fine piece of display against Parma in Serie A as Alexis Sanchez scored his first ever league goal in Granata shirt.

Torino went to the game with Parma without Andrea Mei, Alessandro Rosina and Marco Pisano, but were flying high with win from Champions League and all Serie A matches won, while they also celebrated 100th game with Tanel Tursk in charge of the team.

Elvis Abbruscato used some bad defending from Parma's part to pass a ball towards Rolando Bianchi in six-yard box, but the big marksman saw his effort somehow saved by Parma's goalkeeper Kinsky.

Abbruscato then tried his own luck, but his shot from Simone Padoin's deep cross was followed by brilliant one hand save from Kinsky.

Bianchi was denied one on one opportunity by a brilliant last ditch tackle from Cigarini, but he did manage to get a shot when he saw his effort from Silva's pass flew just over far post.

Simone Barone's free-kick flew into the hands of goalkeeper from 23 meters out, but Bianchis central header from Marco Andreolli cross was saved.

Marco Streller got the first chance for Parma, but his near post shot was tipped over the bar by Kinsky.

Silva got a clearance from edge of the area, but his curling central effort went over the goal as it had already beaten goalkeeper.

Barone sent a fine pass between defenders which Abbruscato picked up, but amazingly managed to shoot his low shot wide of the far post in one on one situation.

Montolivo volleyed Andreolli cross into the sidenetting from tough angle before teams went into break.

After the restart, Silva swerving long range effort wasn't far off the target, but Torino continued to waste chances when Abbruscato hit Bianchi pass past the top corner 10 meters out.

Marcelo Grohe did a fine save on Streller before Alexis Sanchez and Cedric Konan came on.

It didn't take long for two to make impact. Konan gave a fine pass to Abbruscato who went through couple of Parma players before seeing the ball hit away from his feet by Cigarini, luckily into the path of Sanchez who tapped the ball into empty net.

Strellers shot from edge was punched over and Konan's amazing run from his own half was stopped by a fine last ditch tackle.

Silva pulled a fine save out of Kinsky before Raffaele Schiavi came on for Gabriel Tamas.

Konan shined in his first display of the season and took the ball from throw-in before cutting in and curling just over from edge of the area.

Streller turned around Schiavi, but curled over while Alexis Sanchez was close to grabbing his second from Abbruscato cross, but he was brilliantly denied by Kinsky in near post.

Abbruscato received a fine pass from Simone Barone that sent him one on one, but striker couldn't capitalize and his shot was saved.

He got his goal though, two minutes later another one on one situation was served to him by Daniele Bonera and brilliant first touch left defenders behind the clubs top scorer and he rounded the goalkeeper before hitting the ball into the back of the net.

Abbruscato has scored five in five so far

Kutuzov's ambitious effort from 30 meters flew over and Torino continued their four match winning streak at the start of the league season.

Torino: 1-Marcelo Grohe; 4-Marco Andreolli, 5-Gabriel Tamas (68' 2-Raffaele Schiavi), 22-Daniele Bonera, 12-Simone Padoin; 7-Simone Barone, 8-Silva; 13-Antonio Di Natale (52' 20-Cedric Konan), 16-Riccardo Montolivo; 9-Rolando Bianchi (52' 21-Alexis Sanchez), 19-Elvis Abbruscato

Cautioned : None

Other Results

Ascoli 0:1 Lazio
Fiorentina 3.1 Siena
Genoa 0:1 Chievo
Inter 2:1 Juventus
Livorno 2:2 Empoli
Roma 3:0 Milan
Udinese 2:0 Catania
Napoli 3:3 Sampdoria
Brescia 0:1 Palermo

Torino Position: 3rd

Visit Torino Channel FM at YouTube

Tanel · 14-08-07, 04:36 PM

Milan - Torino

1st of October 2008
Giuseppe Meazza, San Siro, Milano
Italian Serie A 2008/2009; Week 6

16'

Alberto Gilardino - 24' 41' 56'

Rolando Bianchi

Match Highlights (4:33)

Rolando Bianchi scored a fantastic hattrick to give Torino a tough win against Milan side that dominated them for most of the time.

Torino was going into the game with Milan in fine form, winning last six games and conceding just two, but this was certainly another big test for them at almost full San Siro stadium. Memories of past games with Milan under charge of Tanel Tursk have been good for Torino, two wins, draw and one unlucky loss and they certainly hoped to add to it.

Andrea Mei, Alessandro Rosina and Marco Pisano continued to sit on the sidelines, but the later should be back for Torino's next game after international break.

Milan got the best of starts, but couldn't capitalize on first chances. Daniele Bonera missed a vital header already in 4th minute and Marcelo Grohe was forced into a fine save from Goran Pandev shot from edge of the area.

Pandev then banged Alberto Gilardino cross over as Torino defense couldn't handle Milan's attacking players.

Breakthrough game with third chance for Milan, Daniel Alves found Alberto Gilardino at far post for a great diving header and Milan was upfront for the delight of home crowd.

Pandev shot over from edge of the area, but Torino showed good composure to capitalize on their first chance of the evening. Elvis Abbruscato pass was deflected off Andrea Barzagli and it sent Rolando Bianchi one on one with Milan goalkeeper Dida and the striker sent a fine finish into near post despite Dida getting his fingers to it. It was his first Serie A goal for Torino.

Elvis Abbruscato almost hit spectacular second for Torino, but his lovely chip rolled closely past the post with Dida beaten.

Few minutes before the break, Torino did manage to get their goal and it was Bianchi again as he headed in Antonio Di Natale cross. Again Dida got a hand to it, but it wasn't enough to stop the ball from going between the posts.

Bianchi finally opened up his cannons in Serie A

At half-time Torino opted for no changes, but Gilardino produced another nice save out of Marcelo Grohe with a curling long range effort during fine piece of counter attacking football from Milan.

Save proved vital and ten minutes into the half, Torino grabbed a surprising third. Di Natale's corner was again headed in by Bianchi at far post and the striker was really living the dream in this Wednesday evening face off.

Torino tried to keep the legs fresh and brought on Gianluca Comotto for Marco Andreolli, but new player quickly saw himself exposed in the wing by Pandev, but Macedonia's fantastic effort flew wide of the far post.

Elvis Abbruscato made a huge run from center circle towards the net for Marco Andreolli long ball, but saw his shot saved by Dida after he had shown his back-heels to Alessandro Nesta and Kakha Kaladze.

Alexis Sanchez replaced Riccardo Montolivo, but Torino couldn't keep up the pace of Milan who put on wild pressure for final minutes. Julio Baptista was denied from tight angle and guardless Kaka amazingly sent a low ball wide of the goal from follow up situation.

Kaka powerful shot flew wide of the top corner before Alberto Gilardino was denied in one on one situation.

Roberto Stellone was brought in for his first display of the season, after hitting 17 goals in league last time, but he didn't get much of the ball.

Andrea Barzagli almost got an own goal from Comotto's cross, but his header towards his own net was caught by full stretch Dida before substitute Leandro Pischulini shot wide in another opening behind Torino defence.

But Bianchi's three goals were enough and Torino climbed another place in table as they now occupy second place with one less game and all wins so far.

Torino: 1-Marcelo Grohe; 4-Marco Andreolli (61' 17-Gianluca Comotto), 5-Gabriel Tamas, 22-Daniele Bonera, 12-Simone Padoin; 7-Simone Barone, 8-Silva; 13-Antonio Di Natale, 16-Riccardo Montolivo (70' 21-Alexis Sanchez); 9-Rolando Bianchi (77' 11-Roberto Stellone), 19-Elvis Abbruscato

Cautioned

: 76' Daniele Bonera

Other Results

Catania 1:0 Livorno
Chievo 1:0 Roma
Empoli 1:1 Genoa
Juventus 3:0 Ascoli
Lazio 1:1 Napoli
Palermo 0:1 Fiorentina
Parma 1:3 Inter
Sampdoria 3:0 Brescia
Siena 1:0 Udinese

Torino Position: 2nd

Visit Torino Channel FM at YouTube

Tanel · 14-08-07, 11:14 PM

Empoli - Torino

11th of October 2008
Carlo Castellani, Empoli
Italian Serie A 2008/2009; Week 7

31'

Erik Jendrisek - 19'

Silva, 63' (Pen.) 73'

Elvis Abbruscato

Match Highlights (3:36)

Torino put in impressive performance in this away game against Empoli with Elvis Abbruscato scoring a truly fabulous individual effort.

There were small problems for Torino heading to this away match with Empoli. Simone Padoin was out injured and half-fit Marco Pisano had to play because of that. Alessandro Rosina, Yves Moukouri, Cedric Konan and Andrea Mei also spent watching the game from the sidelines of Carlo Castellani stadium.

Match got off to a slow start and first true chance came after nearly quarter of a hour. Riccardo Montolivo's corner created quite a lot of havoc in the Empoli area, but neither Gabriel Tamas, Daniele Bonera and Antonio Di Natale couldn't get their shots into the net as their efforts were blocked or saved. From following corner, Tamas ended the tension for a bit by heading the ball over.

But it was just for a bit, minute later Riccardo Montolivo found Silva in the area with his throw-in and the Portugese international showed some fine ball control before smashing the ball under bar for his first goal off the season.

Dangerous Torino counter-attack almost saw Elvis Abbruscato get a free shot at far post, but he was stopped by fabulous interception of Andrea Raggi.

Montolivo free-kick found Abbruscato in the area, but the striker saw his header at near post saved before Empoli got a surprise equalizer.

Svensson's free-kick found Erik Jendrisek in the area and from tight angle, his shot got a deflection off Marco Andreolli and flew into the net.

Francesco Tavano, also paired with Torino in summer, shot the ball over the net after Daniele Bonera's clearance left Marcelo Grohe goal exposed.

Torino were unlucky not to regain the lead before the break when Montolivo's free-kick was headed against the bar by Abbruscato and Rolando Bianchi follow up got blocked.

Comotto came in for obviously not match-fit Pisano in the course of half-time, but couldn't do anything about Jendrisek getting one on one situation in start of the second half, luckily for Torino his effort was rather bad and easy for Grohe to get his fingers to.

Alexis Sanchez came on for Bianchi before Torino was awarded a penalty kick. Former Torino center-back Ivan Francheschini shoved Abbruscato in the area and ref pointed to the spot after consulting with his assistant. Abbruscato himself confidently stepped up and smashed the ball into top corner.

Bonera found Sanchez run with a long ball as the striker cut in from winger before smashing a swerving effort from tight angle just above the bar.

Lasse Qvist came in for Di Natale and moved Sanchez to wing and he was small part of move that made Torino's third goal. He was the one who gave the pass to Elvis Abbruscato, which saw the last two years Serie A top scorer go past quite many Empoli defenders in spectacular move and finish low as the ball bounced in from post.

Abbruscato scored his 6th league goal this season

Abbruscato also was close to getting an assist to his name and he flicked Montolivo free-kick on for Gabriel Tamas low shot from edge of the area which was blocked on line.

In final minutes of the game, Torino was close to adding 4th after fantastic move masterminded by Silva, but Simone Barone couldn't cap quick passing play of Torino with a goal as his shot from edge of the area flew wide.

With win, Torino became the leader of Serie A with all wins so far as Inter and other top clubs witnessed their this weekends game rescheduled, just like happened with Torino's first week game at Udinese.

Torino: 1-Marcelo Grohe; 4-Marco Andreolli, 5-Gabriel Tamas, 22-Daniele Bonera, 6-Marco Pisano (45' 17-Gianluca Comotto); 7-Simone Barone, 8-Silva; 13-Antonio Di Natale (70' 18-Lasse Qvist), 16-Riccardo Montolivo; 9-Rolando Bianchi (56' 21-Alexis Sanchez), 19-Elvis Abbruscato

Cautioned : None

Other Results

Catania 0:0 Roma
Parma 0:0 Ascoli
Siena 1:0 Genoa

Torino Position: 1st

Visit Torino Channel FM at YouTube

Tanel · 15-08-07, 11:23 PM

Werder Bremen - Torino

14th of October 2008
Weserstadion, Bremen
Champions League 2008/2009; Group E; Game 3

24' 66'

Silva, 43'

Elvis Abbruscato

Match Highlights (3:47)

Torino impressed with Silva guiding their way for a very important away win at Bremen as they beat local side Werder three goals to nil.

Torino faced a very important trip to Werder Bremen's home stadium of Weserstadion to really see which role they are going to play in this group and they definitely wanted to continue an amazing winning streak that had left even biggest critics mouth open.

Simone Padoin, Andrea Mei, Cedric Konan and Alessandro Rosina didn't make the trip due to injury problems, but it was the same strong Torino side that grabbed an impressive victory in weekends game in Serie A against Empoli.

First chance of the evening fell to home side when Ivan Klasnic could easily control and turn around with Vagner Love cross in the area, but Marcelo Grohe saved his shot and this was the last time Werder even went dangerously close to Torino goal.

Marco Pisano robbed the ball in the other end, but his central shot from edge of the area was parried by Werder goalkeeper.

Riccardo Montolivo then headed Antonio Di Natale's free-kick high and wide of the goal, before visitors finally scored on 24th minute. Di Natale found Silva on the edge of the area as the Portuguese international sent a brilliant curling effort under the bar, similar effort to last weekends game with Empoli.

Di Natale was threat down the right side and his brilliant cross flew over defenders onto the head of Rolando Bianchi who saw his shot saved.

Pisano showed some neat foot-work going past couple of Werder defenders before shooting miles wide from the edge of the area.

Minute later opportunity game to Torino from throw-in as Bianchi crossed the ball forward to Elvis Abbruscato who shot over at near post.

Though if Werder allowed Bianchi to send a similar cross in for the second time, Abbruscato made no mistake, took the ball down and sent the ball delicately between the post and goalkeeper.

At half-time Bianchi was replaced by Alexis Sanchez, but Werder Bremen had two chances after restart. Thorsten Frings saw his free-kick fly over while Ivan Klasnic header from Christian Weber cross was brilliantly tipped over by Grohe.

Marco Pisano long ball then found Elvis Abbruscato who went past his marker, but saw his shot closed down by Werder goalkeeper Hammel.

Pisano was real head-ache on his right side for Werder players and he again took on few before smashing a long range effort over the bar.

Klasnic fine effort from the edge of area got saved by flying Grohe before Torino put the game beyond doubt. Silva brilliantly sent Di Natale's cross in with a diving header at near post.

Silva scored his second from Hammel mistake on misjudging the flight of the ball

Alexandre Bonnet replaced Riccardo Montolivo but the rest of the match didn't see much flair. Only long range efforts from Per Mertesacker, Thorsten Frings and Gabriel Tamas were something close to decent shots as Torino received a brilliant 3:0 victory.

Torino continues on second place with five points difference ahead of Werder Bremen and two sides meet again in two weeks time in Turin.

Torino: 1-Marcelo Grohe; 4-Marco Andreolli, 5-Gabriel Tamas, 22-Daniele Bonera, 6-Marco Pisano; 7-Simone Barone, 8-Silva; 13-Antonio Di Natal, 16-Riccardo Montolivo (67' 15-Alexandre Bonnet); 9-Rolando Bianchi (45' 21-Alexis Sanchez), 19-Elvis Abbruscato

Cautioned : 13' Rolando Bianchi, 82' Silva

Other Result

Sporting 0:3 Barcelona

Torino Position: 2nd

Visit Torino Channel FM at YouTube

Tanel · 16-08-07, 08:11 AM

Torino - Catania

19th of October 2008
Stadio Grande Torino, Turin
Italian Serie A 2008/2009; Week 8

1' 64'

Rolando Bianchi, 7' 69'

Silva

Match Highlights (4:59)

Torino left only dust remaining when they took on Catania with Serie A's second best defensive record until this game. Silva and Rolando Bianchi both grabbed a brace.

Torino needed a bit of luck earlier this season, but in last two games they had totally crushed their opponents and hoped to do same with Catania who wasn't certainly going to be easy test. The Sicilian side had only conceded three goals in league, just as much Torino themselves. But fifth place side hadn't been much of a scorer either so Tursk knew that two goals would probably get him the result he need.

After beating Werder Bremen 3:0 away on Tuesday, Turin side was definitely flying with confidence. Even continuing injury break of Alessandro Rosina, Simone Padoni and Andrea Mei didn't bother them.

And Torino continued their quick start style like they've done already several times this season. Antonio Di Natale took an early free-kick which caused havoc in the box as Catania couldn't clear the ball properly and Rolando Bianchi could easily tap in his 4th Serie A goal of the season on 1st minute.

Bianchi got close to adding a second one five minutes later, he was discovered at near post by Elvis Abbruscato cross, but goalkeeper of Catania did a fine save on him.

It took just minute more for Torino to get their second though. Silva rose above everyone else to nod in Antonio Di Natale corner kick and send out another message to world of football.

Torino continued to dominate and Marco Pisano found Elvis Abbruscato free in the area with his deep cross, but the first time shot of the league top scorer flew into the side netting.

Gabriel Tamas shot his free-kick a bit wide, before Catania got their first shot on 21st minute when Amedick shot wide.

Catania got another chance, but Reinhardt headed Umberto Del Core corner wide. But it was never going to trouble Marcelo Grohe as it was from 15 meters out.

Fine link-up play with Bianchi sent Elvis Abbruscato away from defenders in the area, but he was denied by Federico Vilar.

Gabriel Tamas didn't do his job on Gionatha Spinesi as he left the veteran striker unmarked in the area, but Marcelo Grohe managed to deny the marksman with a fine save.

No subs came at half-time for Torino, but they continued to impress. Fabulous move opened up space to cut into the box for Antonio Di Natale and he tried to bend a high shot to far post from tight angle, but Vilar came to the rescue with a brilliant fingertip stop.

Abbruscato minute later headed Riccardo Montolivo's free-kick into side netting.

Came calmed down for a little bit before on 64th minute, Torino opened the cannons once more. Marco Andreolli found Abbruscato free of defenders, but it wasn't Romans day as again he was denied. It was the day for Bianchi though, follow-up fell to him and he had easy tap in at far post.

Bianchi scored his 5th Serie A goal this season

Bianchi then came off with a round of applause and was replaced by Lasse Qvist, while Montolivo also was replaced by French starlet Alexandre Bonnet.

Pisano found space for Silva after fine possession play in the left wing as Silva took on one defender before smashing a unstoppable pile driver from 25 meters into near top corner. It's certainly been one hell of a week for Silva, Brazilian prodigy has scored five goals in three games and all of them have been nothing less than beautiful.

Del Core got past Daniele Bonera with fine piece of skill, but shot over from edge of the area.

Tamas was having lots of free-kicks in front of Catania area, but his most dangerous one was brilliantly parried by Vilar from 23 meters.

Alexis Sanchez came on before Tamas shot another free-kick over, but Lasse Qvist should've gotten his Serie A debut goal after fine link-up play with Abbruscato saw him face to face with Vilar, but the Denmark international put the ball just over the bar.

It was the last bit of action from this game as Torino continued their amazing winning streak in league that stretches to ten games now and also nine games in all competitions. Turin side sits five points ahead of the chasing pack with best defence and attack and lately Granata is surely showing the best they can do with impressive displays.

Torino: 1-Marcelo Grohe; 4-Marco Andreolli, 5-Gabriel Tamas, 22-Daniele Bonera, 6-Marco Pisano; 7-Simone Barone, 8-Silva; 13-Antonio Di Natale (75' 21-Alexis Sanchez), 16-Riccardo Montolivo (65' 15-Alexandre Bonnet); 9-Rolando Bianchi (65' 18-Lasse Qvist), 19-Elvis Abbruscato

Cautioned

: None

Other Results

Brescia 1:0 Inter
Fiorentina 0:0 Juventus
Roma 3:0 Siena
Udinese 4:1 Lazio
Livorno 1:0 Sampdoria
Chievo 1:0 Parma
Genoa 3:3 Palermo
Milan 2:0 Empoli
Napoli 1:1 Ascoli

Torino Position: 1st

Visit Torino Channel FM at YouTube

Tanel · 16-08-07, 12:31 PM

Torino - Chievo

22nd of October 2008
Stadio Grande Torino, Turin
Italian Serie A 2008/2009; Week 9

2'

Gabriel Tamas, 15'

Elvis Abbruscato, 46'

Rolando Bianchi - 65'

Sergio Pellissier

Match Highlights (4:05)

Reigning champions are continuing their impressive run at the top of the Italian Serie A and their latest victim was Chievo Verona.

Things were all bright for Torino going to the match against Chievo at home. Simone Padoin was back on bench, Alessandro Rosina just few days away from being able to fully train and Andrea Mei also fit. And not to mention their amazing run of wins which they planned to stretch even longer this time on Stadio Grande Torino.

It was return to home for several former Torino youth products, Sergio Pellissier, Franco Semioli, Simone Tiribocchi and Andrea Mantovani.

And it was a classic dream start for Torino, two minutes in, Gabriel Tamas bent an absolute stunner of a free-kick from 28 meters into the Chievo net as it came off the upright.

Torino was dominant like excepted as Antonio Di Natale found Elvis Abbruscato with a pass, but the striker shout over from edge of the area.

Ex-Torino youngster Franco Semioli tried from 30 meters out, but curled over before Torino grabbed a second goal to confirm their status as Italy's number one. Marco Pisano found Elvis Abbruscato in the area with his free-kick and the striker dragged the ball around his marker before sending a low delicate finish to far post.

Elvis Abbruscato increased his goals tally for this season to amazing nine

Shlomi Arbeitman soft and central shot went over the net and Tiribocchi also banged wide from distance before Torino showed their attacking skills once more.

Elvis Abbruscato pass created a havoc in the edge of the area and Rolando Bianchi picked up to see his supposed to be easy goal, fly over the bar and the former Reggina man could only grab his head in shame.

Tiribocchi headed Filip Trojan cross wide from 15 meters, but it didn't seem to trouble Marcelo Grohe anyway.

Chievo had to limit their chances to long range tries, but Lucchetti saved themselves from third goal as Di Natale found Silva at near post, but the Brazilian, said to be very tired lately, saw his low drive denied.

Simone Padoin came on for Simone Barone who had received a yellow-card and Torino got an immediate goal after the restart. Antonio Di Natale corner saw Abbruscato's header saved, but there was nothing Chievo could do with Rolando Bianchi tapping in the follow-up.

Fine four-pass play between Silva and Simone Padoin opened up a shooting chance for Riccardo Montolivo, but the 9 million signing curled just over from 25 meters.

Roberto Stellone and Alexis Sanchez came on and Rolando Bianchi and Silva came off on 63rd minute, but Torino managed to concede through blunder of Gabriel Tamas. Romanian international, and vice-captain of the team, couldn't contact properly to a throw-in of Chievo and the ball fell to Sergio Pellissier who had it easy to bang in at near post.

Trojan shot his free-kick wide minutes later as Chievo was trying for an epic come-back.

But it wasn't going to happen, Torino held on brilliantly. Instead the best chance of the remainder fell to them. Elvis Abbruscato brilliantly set up a great shooting position for Montolivo who saw his rising effort get brought out of the top corner by a brilliant fingertip save of Lucchetti.

Sammarco free-kick from distance flew over, but little more dangerous set piece saw Roberto Stellone clear Mantovani's shot on the line.

It was 11th consecutive league win for Torino and certainly one that should put even biggest doubters wrong. It's all Toro this season.

Torino: 1-Marcelo Grohe; 4-Marco Andreolli, 5-Gabriel Tamas, 22-Daniele Bonera, 6-Marco Pisano; 7-Simone Barone (45' 12-Simone Padoin), 8-Silva (63' 21-Alexis Sanchez); 13-Antonio Di Natale, 16-Riccardo Montolivo; 9-Rolando Bianchi (63' 11-Roberto Stellone), 19-Elvis Abbruscato

Cautioned

: 80' Gabriel Tamas

Other Results

Ascoli 0:1 Inter
Brescia 1:4 Lazio
Fiorentina 1:2 Sampdoria
Genoa 2:0 Catania
Livorno 0:0 Siena
Milan 2:0 Parma
Napoli 1:0 Juventus
Roma 3:0 Empoli
Udinese 2:2 Palermo

Torino Position: 1st

Visit Torino Channel FM at YouTube

Tanel · 16-08-07, 02:41 PM

Updated: Oct. 22, 2008

TORINO AMONG THE BEST

After seeing his team beat Chievo Verona for 11th consecutive league victory and 10th consecutive win in all competitions, Tanel Tursk claimed that his side are one of the best in the world at the moment.

Torino has been showboating in Serie A and have found their form in Champions League aswell. Especially last performances have been nothing short of magical, Granata has scored impressive amount of 16 goals in last five and conceded just 4 in process.

"I was unhappy with our way of play at one point this season, but now we play like I wanted us to play. This is the ultimate level we're at currently, I'm squeezing all out of the players and they play upto their full abilities. But this squad is young, it'll gain experience and will learn much more with time to come," he praised his teams attitude.

"We went to the season as lucky last season surprise winners. I guess we've shut everyones mouths by now. This Torino side is one of the best in world, the players know what they are doing and they love it. Not all managers can say so. We play brilliant week in and out," he continued.

"There's no player who has done badly this season. They've all been brilliant. From Grohe in goal to Bianchi upfront. I'm very happy lately. I'm surrounded by true champions," he finished.

Torino success is lot written to Tursk's credit as his new 4-2-2-2 seems to get most out of players abilities and the key in Torino's game seems to be the amazing partnership of new-boy Rolando Bianchi and two times Serie A top goalscorer Elvis Abbruscato, two have bagged together amazing 17 goals in all competitions after just 12 games.

What future brings for the new giants of Italian football is unknown, but it certainly can't be anything bad for the runaway leaders of Serie A as besides Italy, they are also keeping the rest of Europe in fear with their free-flowing style which even Barcelona and Arsenal would be proud of.

Tanel · 16-08-07, 07:59 PM

Siena - Torino

26th of October 2008
Artemio Franchi, Siena
Italian Serie A 2008/2009; Week 10

9'

Rolando Bianchi, 42'

Simone Barone, 47'

Riccardo Montolivo, 60'

Elvis Abbruscato

Match Highlights (6:49)

Hot Torino wiped floor with another opponent as they beat Siena through goals from Rolando Bianchi, Simone Barone, Riccardo Montolivo and Elvis Abbruscato.

Torino's luck couldn't get any better. Hot in form and no injuries as Alessandro Rosina was fit enough to return to bench as the final player to sign out of the physio room. Siena had been in rather average form this season and Torino hoped for another easy Sunday work-out game of it ahead of vital Werder Bremen tie in Champions League.

Surprisingly, it was Siena who got the early chance instead of Torino, jaded Silva giving away the ball cheaply and Zajc smashing a deep cross wide off the net at far post.

Torino recovered quick and put on the pressure immediately. Silva made up for his mistake by winning the ball and going on a fine run, but shot was denied by Siena goalkeeper.

Silva was playing at his usual level, but his powerful header from Antonio Di Natale corner kick flew wide at near post.

It didn't took long for pressure to pay off. Marco Andreolli sent his free-kick in and Rolando Bianchi rose above everyone else to nod the ball under bar for his 7th league goal of the season.

Bianchi received a fine long ball from Di Natale and went on a run, but after he took the ball past Gastadello, he shot over at near post.

Masiello shot his low drive past the goal from edge of the area after he was left without guard in set piece situation.

Silva made a second passing blunder in space of 20 minutes that led to dangerous chance, but Claudio Lopez saw his high shot brilliantly tipped over the bar by Marcelo Grohe.

Though, Siena couldn't make anything from their rare chances and Torino continued to dominate. Abbruscato pass was deflected to Bianchi who got one on one with the goalkeeper, but saw his shot tipped for corner.

Another Abbruscato pass send Bianchi on a run once more, but his shot at near post was saved by Wächter.

Fabulous run of Di Natale from his own half saw him send a byline cross to Silva who headed the ball across the goal, but also just wide of the post.

Daniele Bonera and Simone Barone made a double blunder as Daniele Conti, son of former Roma ace Bruno Conti, received a fine chance from close range, but was denied by Grohe.

Pisano received a clearance on the edge of the area, but his shot was central and flew over anyway.

Antonio Di Natale also hit over, but with much better effort that curled just over the far corner.

Torino eventually did get their deserved second goal, Di Natale continued to impress and his cross was headed in by Simone Barone at far post before team went to half-time.

Simone Padoin replaced Silva who had really ran his socks out for the past months without even a minute of rest and Torino put the game beyond doubt at the start of the hal