Anyone looking purely at the possession statistics in this match would probably think that with 66% possession, Arsenal were robbed of a deserved win! But by looking at the shots on target tally - Villa 8 Arsenal 3 (BBC stats) - then a different impression is gained, particularly as Villa forced their keeper into about 5 fingertip saves. In contrast, ex-Gunner Martinez only had one big save to make - a glorious fingertip save from a free-kick that was heading into the top corner.
Yes, the Gunners could so easily have equalised with their impressive attacking play, but as the game wore on into the last 15 minutes it seemed unlikely against a stoic Villa defence. With only one goal in it, though, one defensive mistake could have cost Villa the game.
Yes, Villa's great defensive work earned them the win, but in the first 15 minutes of the second half and in other breakaway raids, Villa could so easily have increased the lead from the 2nd-minute opener. In contrast, Arsenal were given virtually no clear chances.
One has to ask just what was that so-called fatigue against the Hammers on Wednesday that some Villa reporters claimed! Against the Hammers, Barkley looked completely unfit and short of ideas, but today - though still short of what he is capable of - it was a much better display. The rest of the team also looked very much more lively and showing complete concentration, unity and fight.
The idea of fatigue, with virtually the same players as on Wednesday, is just phooey! On Wednesday, Villa just allowed the Hammers to outplay them, it seems to me, although there is the possibility that the players had just allowed themselves to settle into low gear.
I was a bit surprised at today's selection of Barkley (to start with, not afterwards) and also Nakamba, who did his job fairly well without being outstanding, but giving the impression to me that the post is waiting for 'the Warrior' to take over.
Traore's selection paid off straight away, he being alert to spot that he would get to the ball before a defender and put an excellent pass back to Ollie. Ollie, however, did not hit the ball with conviction, but the ball went in off a deflection. Traore had a fairly bright first half and might have scored himself after a lovely shimmy through their defence. It's good to see that kind of talent in the Villa ranks, but more important was the teamwork demonstrated today.
Well, a week off at last to re-stoke the embers during this cold spell. If Villa can maintain concentration then a European place might well be possible.
UTV!
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