Romanisti: Match day life at AS Roma.

Words: Matt Barnes

Images: Matt Barnes

What's the first stop on a cultural tour of Rome? Il Colosseo? The Trevi fountain? Nope, the Jose Mourinho mural of course.

When the special one joined I Giallorossi, this depiction appeared almost overnight, the coach riding a Vespa with a Roma sticker on the front.

In no time at all, rival Lazio fans defaced this precious artefact by adding Maurizo Sarri blowing cigarette smoke over Jose, but it's back, and it's a neoclassical masterpiece.

Then, of course, a visit to the King of Rome is in order, Il Capitano, Francesco Totti. Another work of art constantly being vandalised by Laziale.

It seems neither the buses or the trams are working on this warm, sleepy Sunday afternoon so the journey to the Olimpico is fraught. But it was worth it. Historically complicated, built during the Mussolini era, it is imposing and grand, with a capacity of over 70,000. It even played host to some other sport the day before,

Rugby I think they call it.

Two very thorough searches and ID scrutinised and in. The famous Curva Sud, with its feared ultras, and just next door, the Distinti Sud, where I sat under the impression it wouldn't be as raucous, is still filled with various ultra groups.

They always seem to greet each other warmly though, with two kisses on each cheek, which belies their machismo, and shows camaraderie and love.

Forza Roma.

The Olimpico is a sell out, no doubt the Jose effect. The Serie A anthem booed, in true Ultra authority defying fashion. Flags and banners obscure vision and wave manically. Sassulo clearly did not read the script, and Roma are 2-0 down in 18 minutes, before I Lupi pull one back.

Just before half time Kumbulla sees red, Sassulo penalty for 3-1, the whistles are deafening from some very angry Romanisti who have a strong sense of indignation.

La Joya, Paulo Dybala, the inspiration is on for the second half and wow. Within five minutes, first time shot, top corner, the crowd love him.

The Curva is a lawless place, I definitely got a contact high from the copious amounts of herb in the air. Roma are pulsing, they are riding the wave of the loyal and passionate fans, but the numbers game has caught up and Sassuolo get some breathing room and it's 4-2. Last bit of drama with the final kick of the game, Roma reduce the deficit to 4-3, but not enough tonight.

Calcio magica.