Naijahood
Aston Villa made a significant push towards the top of the Premier League, closing within two points of the leaders, following a resounding 4-1 victory over West Ham on Sunday. Douglas Luiz was the star of the show, netting twice in a match that showcased Villa’s remarkable form under the management of Unai Emery. This marked their 11th consecutive home Premier League win, an achievement highlighting their ambition to secure their first-ever Champions League qualification this season.
Douglas Luiz, among several players who have elevated their performance under Emery’s guidance, extended his remarkable scoring streak at Villa Park. The Brazilian etched his name in the record books as the first Villa player to score in six consecutive home Premier League games, unleashing a powerful strike from outside the box that proved too much for West Ham’s goalkeeper, Alphonse Areola, in the 30th minute.
Emery’s side arguably deserved to lead by a more significant margin at halftime, but Luiz capitalized on an opportunity early in the second half, doubling Villa’s lead from the penalty spot after Edson Alvarez fouled Ezri Konsa.
West Ham briefly reduced the deficit when Jarrod Bowen’s shot deflected off Pau Torres into the far corner, marking his 100th career goal. However, any hopes of a Hammers’ comeback were swiftly dashed by the in-form Ollie Watkins.
Fresh from delivering the winning goal for England against Australia during a rare international appearance as Harry Kane’s backup, Watkins continued his remarkable run, smashing in his eighth goal of the season from a tight angle.
Leon Bailey, a testament to Villa’s impressive attacking acquisitions in recent transfer windows, further solidified their dominance. Despite initially starting on the bench, Bailey seized his moment during his 15-minute stint on the field. He skillfully cut inside Nayef Aguerd with a step-over move and unleashed a precision strike into the top corner.
With this victory, Villa surged to fifth place in the Premier League table, placing them within striking distance of the leaders, Manchester City.
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