The Biancoceleste had gone into the game on the back of a 1-0 defeat to Roma in last weekend's derby and under pressure to deliver with their last win in the league dating back to August 30.

"Despite the delicate situation, my players have remained focused against a great team," said Ballardini.

"The team has remained united and battled to claim three points.

"I have to congratulate my players who played a good game today.

"This is a very important victory considering our poor start to the campaign."

A defeat today would have seen Lazio drop into the relegation zone and left Ballardini's future at the club in doubt.

Having failed to score in their last three games, Aleksandar Kolarov stopped the rot with his goal lifting Lazio to 15th in the standings, three points clear of the drop zone.

Ballardini now hopes today's result will mark a turning point for the Romans, although the Biancoceleste coach remains cautious with his side travelling to the San Siro next to meet Serie A leaders Inter Milan in their final game of the year.

"It's too early to say whether our fortunes have changed," said Ballardini.

"We need to play with the same determination and character that we did against Roma and against Genoa.

"But this is a very difficult tournament and each game has its own challenges."