In a landmark Premier League clash, Aston Villa triumphed 2-0 over Newcastle United at St. James' Park, ending a notorious hoodoo that had persisted since 2005. Unai Emery's side delivered a resilient performance, with Emiliano Buendia and Ollie Watkins scoring the decisive goals to secure all three points and temporarily close the gap to league leaders Arsenal to just four points.
Match Report: Villa's Historic Victory
The Villans had not won in any of their last 17 visits to Newcastle, making this victory particularly significant. The breakthrough came in the 19th minute when Emiliano Buendia unleashed a spectacular strike from 25 yards, leaving goalkeeper Nick Pope with no chance as the ball dipped and swerved into the far corner. This goal, Buendia's seventh of the season, ignited the away fans and set the tone for Villa's dominance.
Newcastle responded with increased pressure in the second half, but Villa sealed the win late on. In the 88th minute, Ollie Watkins rose to head home a precise cross from Lucas Digne, doubling the advantage and ensuring the points were safe. The only setback for Villa was a midfield injury concern, as Youri Tielemans was forced off with an ankle twist after a challenge from Lewis Miley, leaving Emery hopeful it is not serious.
Player Ratings: Standout Performances
Emiliano Martinez, returning from a calf injury, was instrumental in goal, making key saves including a pivotal stop from Sandro Tonali early on and a full-stretch denial of Miley's header. His commanding presence earned him a top rating.
Goalkeeper and Defence
- Emiliano Martinez: Shone on his 200th Premier League appearance with crucial saves and area dominance. Rating: 9/10
- Matty Cash: Provided solid defence and width, keeping Anthony Gordon quiet. Rating: 7/10
- Ezri Konsa: Marshalled the backline superbly with a dominant display. Rating: 8/10
- Pau Torres: Improved positioning to handle crosses effectively. Rating: 7/10
- Ian Maatsen: Excelled in his duel with Harvey Barnes, though booked late. Rating: 8/10
Midfield and Attack
- Amadou Onana: Battled hard in midfield, showing resilience after a stamp. Rating: 8/10
- Youri Tielemans: Dictated tempo with incisive passing before his injury. Rating: 8/10
- Emiliano Buendia: Scored a stunning goal and was a constant threat, also contributing defensively. Rating: 9/10
- Morgan Rogers: Assisted Buendia's goal and linked up well, with clever passes and defensive work. Rating: 8/10
- Jadon Sancho: Had a lively start, creating chances, but quietened later. Rating: 7/10
- Ollie Watkins: Scored the crucial second goal and made defensive contributions. Rating: 8/10
This victory not only breaks Villa's long-standing curse at St. James' Park but also boosts their Premier League ambitions, showcasing a team performance brimming with confidence and tactical discipline under Emery's guidance.
