Liam Scales scored an unfortunate early own goal to set the tone and Irishman Even Ferguson then bagged a double. Arne Engels did miss a penalty and Kelechi Iheanacho had a goal ruled out for offside, but it was all to easy for the visiting Italians.
Post-match, Nancy was asked what he had asked for from his players that they failed to deliver.
He told TNT Sports: “A few things, but the reality is we are not able to cope with the intensity. And they try to do well, but the first half was difficult. We were not able to come out of the pressure.
“We had a few moments where we unbalanced them, but we didn’t keep the [ball] that we had, so that’s why it was difficult. So we were on the battle all the time. And as soon as we have a bit of time to play forward, we didn’t take the good decision, but it was not easy for my players.
“I really like the second half, good reaction. We play with a little bit more proximity between players to escape the pressure. And we went higher. The first goal that we conceded didn’t help also because we are on the corner again, but this time was an own goal. So to come from behind was not easy. So listen, the attitude was good. Second half was better, but it was not enough against a better team.”
Asked if that meant the players were not hearing his message, he added: “No, listen, they try. I cannot tell you that they didn’t try; they tried. But the battle of power was too strong, simple as that. And after that, we should have been able to connect a little bit more, but we didn’t do it.
“So again, this is the situation. I’m not concerned because I really like the reaction, and for me, this is the most important. And they deserve at least to score one goal to see after that if the dynamic can change. But for the moment, this is… was too strong.”
Fans booed after the defeat to Hearts and again this evening. Nancy understands their frustration and refused to take the opportunity to ask for more patience.
“No, listen, I respect the fans are really important for us. They are key. They know that and we play for them. So this is clear. So now they were not happy with the situation, so they show it.
“Again, I know where we are going. For the moment in term of result, this is not what we want, but I can see a lot of good things. And yes, patience obviously this is something important, but I know also that patience, this is difficult in football. But I believe that in what we do and I believe that shortly things gonna go in our way.”