Sinisa Mihajlovic was delighted to collect a point in his debut as Bologna coach.

Mihajlovic's Bologna drew 1-1 with Roma yesterday as they fought back from Francesco Totti's opener to force an own goal from Cicinho late on.

"I thank the lads because they proved they are a great side," said the new Coach on his first appearance.

"They fought hard, suffered under pressure and even had more chances than Roma. It was entirely possible to lose against a side like Roma, but at the end it went well.

"The players have increased their confidence and deserved the draw, as if we had lost it would've been a hard blow for morale.

"This is the right spirit that I want to see. If you can leave the field at the final whistle with your head held high, then the result doesn't matter."

Mihajlovic had until now only ever worked as assistant manager to Roberto Mancini at Inter, but is now a Coach in his own right.

"It was a great feeling and especially to make my debut against a big club where we proved we are not inferior. It was just a shame we conceded that goal," said the former defender.

"The lads did well to get back on track and if we continue with this level of concentration and spirit of sacrifice, then we can go far.

"I was convinced of our potential before the game, but now I am even more."