Aston Villa remain unbeaten on the road this season and just one defeat in eleven in all competitions following their 1-3 victory over Fulham at Craven Cottage yesterday afternoon.
Rewind two years, and Aston Villa sacked then-manager Steven Gerrard following a 3-0 defeat against Fulham. It’s been quite an upward trajectory since then, and they do say things happen for a reason. Unai Emery replaced the departing Gerrard and the rest is history.
Despite our consistency and form since the appointment of Emery I still approached yesterday’s game with caution. Fulham, before yesterday, were unbeaten at home and despite Villa’s recent form, in recent years, these are the kind of games we don’t turn up. It wasn’t to be. The win saw Villa rise into the top four and just a point off table-topping Liverpool. Report: Fulham 1-3 Aston Villa
Emery proudly stated in his press conference on Friday afternoon that he had a full squad to choose from, even if some lacked match fitness. When the team sheet was released, the bench looked as strong as I think I have ever seen it and there was still no place for Tyrone Mings who is still recovering from a long-term injury. The defender did travel though and watched on from the sidelines.
The home side got off to a dream start when they took the lead in the fifth minute. Fulham keeper, Bernd Leno sent a long ball upfield for Raúl Jiménez who was able to hold off a challenge from Pau Torres before slotting the ball ...