Thaindian News

Rome, Sep 19 (IANS) AC Milan failed to shrug off their disappointing form as they were held to a 0-0 draw by Anderlecht at home in the Champions League football first round group match.

Milan have lost all their two home games so far this season and Tuesday night they were desperately hoping for some luck to get their campaign going, reports Xinhua.

But the visitors turned out to be a brighter side in the first half, with Bram Nuytinck having a powerful shot charged down before a fine effort from Sacha Kljestan was parried away by Christian Abbiati.

Anderlecht had their best chance to take the lead early in the second half.

Lucas Biglia, who had moments earlier seen a long-range effort blocked by Daniele Bonera, got into a great position only to slice wide on the volley.

Milan responded with Emanuelson flashing a shot wide before Boateng sent yet another header wide, this time from a free-kick. Antonio Nocerino then stretched Proto with a shot across goal before Stephan El Shaarawi’s header brought an excellent save from the Anderlecht goalkeeper.

AC Milan head coach Massimiliano Allegri put on a brave face to claim that his side move a small step forward following this game.

“My lads played with effort, courage and intensity, while Anderlecht never had a shot on target. It is a small step forward, as we kept a clean sheet, so now we’ve got to score against Udinese,” he said.

“The positives are that we did not allow any clear scoring opportunities, but the negative is that we wasted some good chances and at the moment that’s just the way things are going. My lads did the most they could in a moment that is not easy.

“It’s a shame, as a victory would’ve been important for the lads tonight, as it’s certainly not a positive moment psychologically. I still think we’re on the right path and am relaxed, just as I was before the game,” he said.

Midfielder Mathieu Flamini felt hurt to be jeered by home fans following AC Milan were booed off the field.

“It hurts to be jeered, of course. Today the team wanted to win the game and had three great chances,” the Frenchman said.

“It’s positive that we were solid defensively and did not concede. Now we are looking for a goal and we don’t know why it hasn’t come, because this side has quality and created opportunities.

“It is to be considered a positive point and I am sure the goal will arrive in the next game. We must forget this night, work hard and I’m confident things will go well,” he said.