Milan deserved win, says Allegri

Massimiliano Allegri expressed disappointment after his Milan side rescued a 1-1 draw in their UEFA Champions League game with Ajax.

Allegri’s men appeared set for defeat when defender Stefano Denswil headed Ajax into the lead as he rose highest to meet Lasse Schone’s corner in the 90th minute.

However, Milan quickly responded to earn a share of the spoils, Mario Balotelli converting from the spot after substitute Mike van der Hoorn had been adjudged to have hauled down the Italy international in the fourth minute of injury time.

Still, Allegri felt his side deserved more from the game, and bemoaned the manner in which they conceded.

“We tried to slow the game down and we defended well in the first 45 minutes,” he said.

“In the second half, Ajax could not keep the same level of performance. We started to play better and we should have won the game.

“Unfortunately we conceded a cheap goal on a corner and now we must feel satisfied with the draw.”

Allegri reserved praise for goalscorer Balotelli, though, who went close earlier in the game when he had a curling effort tipped on to the crossbar by Ajax keeper Jasper Cillessen

“Balotelli played well,” the 46-year-old added.

“He went close when he hit the bar with a great shot. He is a very important player for us.”