AC Milan moved into sixth place on the Serie A table courtesy of a fine brace from Giampaolo Pazzini that helped them to a 2-1 win over Bologna at the San Siro.
The opener came midway through the second half for the hosts before Pazzini added a second with less than 10 minutes left on the clock.
Philippe Mexes’ own goal set up a nervy finish but Milan were able to hang on as they continued their assault on the European places.
Stephan El Shaarawy had an early chance but his effort was well kept out by Federico Agliardi as Milan bossed the game.
Youngster M'Baye Niang was a constant menace in attack and Pazzini also displayed his class as he directed a header goalwards that the keeper did well to fend away.
Agliardi was busy between the sticks as the game neared the break as he denied Pazzini and saved El Shaarawy’s follow-up.
Pazzini turned the ball against the near post as Milan continued to push for goals in the second half and was soon rewarded for his industry up front.
There was a touch of fortune about the goal as Pazzini’s first-time volley flew off Mikael Antonsson and wrong footed the keeper.
Bologna looked to hit back immediately as Diamanti was denied twice in succession by brave work from Milan players who go between the shots and the goal.
If there was an element of luck about Pazzini’s first goal he needed none for his second in the 82nd minute as he showed a deft touch before producing a classy finish.
With Milan seemingly home and dry Mexes put the hosts in danger of losing their lead as he gave Bologna a lifeline, nodding in Cristian Pasquato's tame shot, but the Rossoneri hung on.
