Rome  - Jeremy Menez was the hero for Roma Saturday as he scored a second-half winner to secure a 1-0 win over Chievo and register his side's fourth win in succession.

The Frenchman played one of his best games since joining the Rome club and was rewarded on 69 minutes with a spectacular volley that ensured victory.

Menez first threatened on nine minutes with a dangerous drive while 10 minutes later two defenders managed to block the former Monaco midfielder as he tried to break into the area.

But no one could stop him six minutes later as he stormed down the left flank and squared an inviting assist for Matteo Brighi.

The onrushing midfielder, however, missed the easy chance as Stefano Sorrentino dived to block the close-range flick.

Chievo had few chances to their name as Roma controlled midfield, allowing a single effort to Mauro Esposito, who saw Brazilian goalkeeper Doni block his shot.

Defender Philippe Mexes, another Frenchman playing with Roma, tried a header before the break, after which Roma produced relentless pressure that was eventually to yield them a fourth straight win.

Brazilian Julio Baptista pounced on a cross on 51 minutes, but saw Chievo defender Andrea Mantovani deflect his effort, while the Sorrentino bravely deflected two drives from Roma captain Francesco Totti.

Another great dive from the Chievo goalkeeper on 64 minutes blocked Simone Perrotta's volley, but not Menez's drive, which was the Frenchman's first goal in the Italian Serie A.

A last threat for Sorrentino came on 77 minutes from a powerful free kick by specialist John Arne Riise.

The dismissal of Brighi due to a second yellow card complicated matters for Roma in the last five minutes, although the hosts failed to seriously threaten.

The result moves Roma on to 20 points from 14 games, with one game in hand on Sampdoria, and remain far behind leaders Inter Milan, who have 33 points ahead of their clash at Lazio later Saturday. (dpa)