Brentford vs Aston Villa Report

Scorers: Watkins 49’

Aston Villa ended their struggles in matches following UEFA Champions League fixtures, securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium.

The win marked Villa’s first Premier League triumph in such a scenario since September, while Brentford’s home woes continued as they extended their winless streak to eight matches in all competitions.

Early Defensive Lapses Give Brentford an Opening

Coming off the back of a midweek Champions League round of 16 first-leg victory over Club Brugge, Villa were expected to struggle with fatigue.

That seemed evident early on when John McGinn’s costly giveaway inside his own penalty area nearly gifted Brentford a golden opportunity. However, Youri Tielemans’ quick intervention denied Yoane Wissa a clear sight of goal.

Despite the shaky start, Unai Emery’s side grew into the game. Jacob Ramsey and Leon Bailey both attempted efforts from distance, while Tyrone Mings connected with a Tielemans free-kick, only to direct his header straight at Mark Flekken.

Villa Take Control, But Brentford Threaten on the Counter

Villa continued to push forward, and shortly after the half-hour mark, Tielemans tested Flekken from a tight angle after an impressive driving run into the box.

Moments later, Ramsey’s cross found Tielemans, whose attempted knock-back almost forced Ethan Pinnock into scoring an own goal.

However, Brentford briefly thought they had taken the lead 10 minutes before the break. Wissa rounded Robin Olsen and tapped into an empty net, but the offside flag had already been raised, ensuring the teams went into half-time goalless.

Ollie Watkins’ Deflected Strike Puts Villa Ahead

Villa had not completed a league double over Brentford since 1947, but they moved a step closer early in the second half. Tielemans launched a quick counter-attack, finding Ramsey, who in turn played in Ollie Watkins on the left.

The England striker cut inside and fired a shot from a tight angle, which took a crucial deflection off Kristoffer Ajer before nestling past Flekken to give the visitors the lead.

Villa thought they had doubled their advantage just minutes later when Watkins set up Morgan Rogers for a close-range finish, but VAR ruled the goal out for offside in the build-up.

Brentford Push for an Equaliser, But Villa Hold Firm

As Brentford searched for a way back into the match, Villa’s defence stood resolute. The hosts struggled to create clear-cut chances until the 70th minute when Wissa teed up Keane Lewis-Potter, who saw his effort crash against the post from the edge of the area.

In the closing stages, Kevin Schade forced a strong save from Olsen before a frantic goalmouth scramble ended with Mikkel Damsgaard firing narrowly wide. Despite late pressure, Villa held firm to secure a crucial victory, marking just their second win in their last eight league outings.

Villa Strengthen European Bid as Brentford’s Struggles Continue

The win gives Aston Villa a much-needed boost in their push for European football, proving they can balance domestic and European commitments.

Meanwhile, Thomas Frank’s side remain without a Premier League victory in seven matches, deepening their struggles as they continue to slide down the table.

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Brentford v Aston Villa, 2024/25 | Premier League