Aston Villa played out a 1-1 draw on the day they celebrated the success of their 1982 European Cup-winning side, a draw which keeps both sides’ hopes of finishing in the top half alive.
In the first half, Danny Ings spurned three chances for the hosts to take the lead, but Steven Gerrard’s men finally broke through when Ollie Watkins slid home in front of the Holte End.
However, the Eagles earned a point with a deserved equaliser from Jeff Schlupp, who beat Emi Martinez at the back post.
Emi Martinez – 8
Rating contribution from Justin Hawthorne
He didn’t have much to do against a decent Palace team; we kept them mostly at bay until the flick on that led to the Palace equaliser, which he couldn’t stop.
Several routine saves were made throughout.
Matty Cash – 7.5
Rating contribution from Ivan McDouall
An up and down game for Villa’s Player of the Year. He appeared subdued and hesitant to push forward at times, which made me wonder if this was a game plan with Palace posing a threat down his flank. As usual, when he foraged forward, he posed a threat.
Few good moments in the back, and always willing to put himself in danger. He appeared to be injured near the end, but Villa had made three substitutions.
Ezri Konsa – 7
Rating contribution from Gary Plaza
Konsa had a good first half, not putting a single foot wrong. Hopefully, the injury is not too serious.
Tyrone Mings – 7
Rating contribution from Ivan McDouall
I feel like I could write the same thing for our current captain every time – moments of authority and dominance mixed with carelessness and irrational decisions. Clearly, he is still a significant presence and organiser. He was booked early on and, to his credit, remained sensible thereafter.
*Lucas Digne – 8.5
Rating contribution from Ryan Mckeown
Lucas Digne, who has gone from strength to strength in a claret and blue shirt, is one player who will not want the season to end.
Appeared restricted in attack during the first-half, but was very strong defensively. More attacking freedom in the second half, resulting in a sublime delivery for Watkins’ opener.
As we searched for the winner, stung Butland’s hand with a rasping long-range effort! Player Of The Match
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Marvelous Nakamba – 6
Rating contribution from Gary Plaza
More minutes in the tank though which is a great for Marv. Some great blocks and interceptions just let himself down when giving the ball away straight after the good work.
John McGinn – 7
Rating contribution from Ryan Mckeown
McGinn delivered another commanding performance as his good run of form continues.
Douglas Luiz – 7
Rating contribution from Justin Hawthorne
Started again in the 8th and, for the most part, was tidy enough in possession without providing the cutting edge that the game needed for long stretches. When he was moved to the 6, he improved, but I believe the entire team did when Ramsey and Buendia were introduced.
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Danny Ings – 6
Rating contribution from Ivan McDouall
Quieter than in recent games, but worked well in the first half to get on the end of a couple of centres. In general, he and the rest of the group appeared lethargic. As was the case against Liverpool, at least one goal should have been scored.
Rightly made way for Buendia.
Philippe Coutinho – 8
Rating contribution from Justin Hawthorne
An interesting afternoon for the newly signed Brazilian playmaker, tried very hard to prompt and dictate play but Palace’s resilience and shape shut down many of his attempted attacks.
One thing he never shirks is his desire to always get on the ball and try and make things happen
Ollie Watkins – 8
Rating contribution from Gary Plaza
Another top outing for Ollie and another when he’s looked like the player we had last season.
Pressured their backline constantly from the first whistle. His hard work was rewarded with a cool finish. A good end to the season, and with a positive preseason and i see him hitting 20 goals for us next season.
Substitutions
Calum Chambers – 6
On for Konsa, 50th minute – good outing and great ready made replacement for Konsa. Not much to report in a poor game. Both teams looked like they were ready for the beach already. Rating contribution from Gary Plaza
Jacob Ramsey – 6
On for Nakamba, 65th minute – couple of the usual driving runs we are used to when he returned to action in the second half. Rating contribution from Gary Plaza
I’m sure we’ll see him back in the starting line up vs Burnley.
Emi Buendia – 8
On for Ings, 70th minute – our Number 10 has a directness and liveliness about him that means he must now start. He pushes forward, looking to create. He communicated well with those around him. A breath of fresh air, to put it mildly. Rating contribution from Ivan McDouall
Subs not used | Robin Olsen, Morgan Sanson, Ashley Young, Bertrand Traore, Carney Chukwuemeka, Tim Iroegbunam.
Goals
Aston Villa | Watkins (69)
Crystal Palace | Schlupp (82)
Opposition
Crystal Palace, 4-2-3-1 | Butland; Clyne, Guehi, Andersen, Mitchell; Kouyate, Milivojevic (Benteke, 78); Eze (Schlupp, 78), Gallagher, Zaha; Mateta (Edouard, 71).
Subs not used | Guaita, Ward, Kelly, Hughes, Rak-Sakyi, Ayew.
Match Officials
Referee: Chris Kavanagh. Assistants: Harry Lennard, Nick Hopton. Fourth official: Martin Atkinson. VAR: David Coote. Assistant VAR: James Mainwaring
THE BOSS
ASTON VILLA PLAYER REACTION
HIGHLIGHTS
UP NEXT
Burnley (H) | Thursday 19th May 2022 | 20:00
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One Response
A rightly deserved player of the match for Digne, he was superb!
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