Roma are on track for a comfortable win over Livorno that would keep them in touch with Serie A leaders Juventus, thanks to two first-half goals.

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The first came after six minutes when former Arsenal forward Gervinho set up Mattia Destro, whose right-footed strike from close range was too good for keeper Francesco Bardi.

The hosts dominated possession throughout the first half and had chances to increase their advantage with both Miralem Pjanic and Mehdi Benatia going close for the hosts.

Rudi Garcia's side added a deserved second when former PSV midfielder Kevin Strootman rifled a left-footed shot beyond Bardi's grasp from point-blank range.

The Giallorossi almost put the game out of Livorno's reach before the interval when Vasilis Torosidis's cross reached Gervinho, but Ivorian's header was narrowly wide of goal.

Roma began the game eight points behind Juve in the Serie A table.