Player Ratings: Watkins Strikes To Deliver Villa Victory Over Chelsea

Villa returned to winning ways, responding well following a disappointing loss to Legia Warsaw (3-2) in the Europa Conference League midweek.

This was a good contest, with chances for either side, but the balance shifted after Malo Gusto was shown red for the hosts after a poor challenge on Lucas Digne.

The key moment though fell to Ollie Watkins, who ended a goal drought of just one strike in 12 appearances. When it came, the former Brentford striker took his chance excellently, firing a low effort from a seemingly impossible angle beneath Chelsea’s keeper Sanchez.

With (social media) rumours swirling concerning Watkins’ contract status, the England international wheeled away following his goal with a Grealishesque [fingers-in-ears] celebration.

This was a welcome victory, and with the return of Villa’s big hitters to the starting XI, re-affirms the belief that the core squad offers great promise.

Although Chelsea are certainly miss-firing at present, it shouldn’t be overlooked that our opponents have invested (wasted?) over £1 billion in talent across the last transfer windows. It seemed clear today, however, which side is on the up.