Robinho Vaz makes the key impact as Roma return to victories over Lecce

Romas performance has declined sharply lately putting their campaign at risk of fading following their midweek UEFA Europa League loss to Bologna and difficulties staying in the race for UEFA Champions League spots.

Facing struggling Lecce offered a prime chance to recover but even with control of the ball in the opening half they rarely challenged Wladimiro Falcone effectively.

Donyell Malen posed the greatest danger for his team and likely squandered Romas clearest opportunity by shooting high from close range though he was the sole quick option in the hosts lineup making him an obvious focus at times.

The Giallorossi thought they had scored via Nicolò Pissili around the halfway mark but the goal was disallowed due to Lorenzo Pellegrini being offside earlier in the move.

Lecce barely threatened during the initial 45 minutes yet they created the opening two shots after the break. Just two minutes in Oumar Ngom made Mile Svilar spill the ball for a corner and from that Tiago Gabriel nodded wide. To inject more energy Gasperini brought on Robinho Vaz who proved decisive.

After strong play by Mario Hermoso on the flank the replacement arrived to nod in the cross aimed at the far post.

Despite taking the advantage Roma appeared uneasy and a superb block by Hermoso on the line from Santiago Pierottis powerful header preserved their lead.

As the home side sought to build a bigger cushion Vaz connected with a volley that sailed over representing one of their rare clear openings.

In the end the visitors failed to mount consistent attacks letting Roma stretch their unbeaten streak at home in the league to eight games closing the gap to Como to three points. Lecce meanwhile slip into the drop zone on goals scored and face eight remaining fixtures to secure their Serie A place.