Roma 1-0 Parma: Solitary Borini strike clinches points and sends Luis Enrique's side fifth in Serie A

The match started out at a fast pace, with both clubs looking for an early goal, but without showing the capacity to create any clear-cut chances.

Roma had a strong penalty claim waved away by the referee in the 14th minute, when Fernando Gago's shot from outside the box hit the arm of Stefano Ferrario. However, the referee ruled that there were four Roma players in offside position prior to the defender’s infraction.

The Giallorossi refused to lower their heads and took control of the game, finding the back of the net in the 25th minute. Fernando Gago played a brilliant through ball behind the defensive line for Fabio Borini, who slotted it past Antonio Mirante with a low drive.

Luis Enrique was happy with what he was seeing and had every reason to feel that way, as the hosts dominated the midfield battle even though they struggled to get closer to Mirante's goal.

The second half began in the same manner as the first one had ended, with Roma dominating proceedings. Pablo Osvaldo came close to scoring twice on 51 minutes, but Mirante was up to the challenge on both occasions.

The goalkeeper did well to save Osvaldo's shot after the striker had cut inside from the left. Then, the 28-year-old got his gloves to a low Borini cross from the right when Osvaldo was getting ready to tap the ball home.

Francesco Totti almost added his name to the scoresheet after being assisted by Gago, but he could not keep his shot down after being pressurized by a Parma man.

Marquinho almost doubled Roma's lead in the 91st minute after being played through, but with only Mirante to beat he sent his shot against the goalkeeper's legs.

With this result, Roma takes full advantage of Inter’s slip up and move up to fifth in the Serie A table with 38 points, being closely followed by Napoli, who has one point fewer.

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