"The table just got a bit more interesting. Juve are still far away, we must only continue to rack up positive performances," Ancelotti told Milan's official website after the game.

While conceding that catching runaway leaders Juventus is difficult, the Italian tactician urged his players to continue their recent impressive display.

"We are on a good streak. We have found that consistency that was missing even if we have played in fits and starts," he added.

A first-half penalty from Alberto Gilardino secured the win for the Rossoneri and raised their point tally to 57, ten adrift of defending champions and leaders Juventus.

Ancelotti paid tribute to his defense for their consistent performance in recent matches, especially after missing key players like Brazilian Marcus Cafu and skipper Paolo Maldini through injuries.

"We have the best defensive record in the return round. We were really focused once again today," he said.

"We didn’t concede too much space to Suazo (Cagliari striker) and we created a lot of scoring opportunities," he added.