Aston Villa launched a stirring second-half comeback to secure a 2-1 win over Chelsea in our Premier League clash this weekend.
Our poor start to the encounter was punished after just nine minutes as Enzo Fernandez gave the visitors the lead, but despite improving as the first half went on, Villa were unable to find a way back into the clash.
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That changed after the interval as a Marco Asensio brace ensured we picked up all three points, as it ends a positive week having battled to a draw with league leaders Liverpool in midweek.
Our schedule continues to be challenging with two more games in the space of four days, but with key individuals returning from injury, we’ve hopefully got the quality and strength in depth to continue building momentum.
Crucial result, momentum building for Villa
After the disappointment and frustration of our draw with Ipswich, Villa have battled back well to take four points from games against Liverpool and Chelsea to build some momentum.
We face significant competition for a Champions League qualification spot, and we may well have had one or two costly results that may yet prove to be decisive in the race, but we’ve got to finish the season strong.
Bagging a late winner in this game to wrap up a positive week will hopefully do wonders for our confidence and to reinvigorate tired legs and minds, and so the importance of these three points can’t be underplayed.
Rashford impact fundamental in win
It’s been thoroughly enjoyable watching Marcus Rashford since he arrived last month, as he has made such a positive impression with his play in and out of possession.
Not only does he work hard without the ball to press and apply pressure on the opposition, but he consistently plays with positive intent with his direct running and desire to take his marker on.
Further, he stretches the pitch with his preference to hug the sideline, and so he has added a very important fresh dynamic to our attacking play which is crucial to picking holes in the opponent’s defensive shape.
Asensio decisive in adding new dynamic
Similarly to Rashford, Asensio has also made an important impact since joining us, with his technical ability and creativity giving us another option in the final third.
While he wasn’t as effective in the first half against Chelsea as we’ve seen him when he’s come off the bench in other games, he produced two major moments with his brace to secure a fundamental win for the team.
That positional awareness and intelligence to get into the right places is key for us, and it’s hoped that he can continue to make important contributions in the coming months.
Credit to midfield duo McGinn, Tielemans
With Amadou Onana, Boubacar Kamara and Ross Barkley all currently sidelined by injury, Emery doesn’t have the luxury of being able to rotate and rest players.
That in turn has put added responsibility and strain on John McGinn and Youri Tielemans to play in our deeper midfield pivot, and the pair continue to play a crucial role in our performances.
With their combination of tenacity, technical ability and composure, they are continuing to give us control and presence in that midfield battle, and while it’s hoped that we can give them a rest sooner rather than later when others return, their consistency has been critical.
Bogarde continues to answer the call
Whether it’s at right-back, centre-half or a defensive midfield position, Lamare Bogarde has been deployed all over the Villa side this season when needed.
The talented youngster deserves plenty of credit for being such a key depth option for Emery, as he has played a vital role amid our injury struggles.
Having put in a no-nonsense display against Chelsea, he played an important part in helping us get the win as he came on in another difficult game situation, but he continues to deliver when called upon and he has been invaluable in plugging those gaps.