Clinical Aston Villa shatter injury-riddled Spurs title hopes with classy Watkins winner

Moving into that coveted 4th place in the Premier League with a superb performance to maintain their European spot, Unai Emery’s fired up chargers were full value as they grabbed all 3 points inside a chilly Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

After a brilliant start that featured a few chances, Argentina international Gio Lo Celso slotted home a deflected shot from a sharp pass from the energetic Pedro Porro. This was a much-needed goal from a player who has had to play second fiddle to an in-form James Maddison all season.

Spurs were playing with pace and poise until an ugly tackle from Poland international forced returning midfield playmaker Rodrigo Bentancur off early in the first half. The silky Uruguayan maestro was just getting back to full fitness after a long spell on the sidelines and this was the game changer to the undermanned Tottenham side.

After a few threatening moments with the Tottenham backline creaking with four full backs, Spanish defender Pau Torres scored from a Douglas Luiz cross just before half time. He had an easier chance earlier on so looked mightily relieved to slot home the equaliser.

The game featured a handful of VAR calls and Spurs flyer Son Heung Min was especially frustrated after causing the Villa defence many issues all afternoon. Robert Jones was kept busy all day and further cemented his reputation as one of the most respected referees in the Premier League.

2nd half sub Youri Tielemans must have felt rather frustrated to be on the bench and made his mark with a calm pass to the sensational England international Ollie Watkins in the 61st minute. He is a cool customer and seemed to break Tottenhom hearts with a crisp finish that ultimately was the difference between the two evenly matched sides.

Ange Postecoglou must be counting down the days until he gets back his trusted centre back pairing Christian Romero and Micky van der Ven. Eric Dier is woefully out of form and Spurs need reinforcements back as soon as possible to regain their once-steaming momentum.

Villa are flying and are only two points away from the summit. Could they cause an unlikely upset and take home all the glory? If they can keep Watkins fit while keeping their back four solid, anything is possible. 

Source: Premier League