The Premier League title may be all but wrapped up, but the battle for the remaining four UEFA Champions League spots is still raging. Aston Villa’s 4-1 thrashing of Newcastle is a case in point.
The Villa faithful were still reeling from their Europa Conference League exit, but Unai Emery’s men bounced back with a convincing home win against the third-placed Magpies, keeping their Champions League hopes alive. They’re now just a point behind Manchester City, who also won on Saturday, and two points adrift of Newcastle.
A thrilling second half
The visitors got off to a flying start, with Ollie Watkins netting on the first minute after some neat work from Youri Tielemans. However, the Magpies fought back, with Swiss midfielder Remo Freuler not featuring in this match, but his teammate, Swiss compatriot Granit Xhaka not playing, yet another Swiss player, Schar, equalizing on 18 minutes, courtesy of a fine cross from England international Barnes. The score was level heading into halftime.
The second half was a different story. Emery’s men dominated, scoring three unanswered goals in just ten minutes. Maatsen restored Villa’s lead on 64 minutes. Dan Burn’s own goal on 73 minutes doubled their advantage, and Belgian youngster Onana sealed the win three minutes later.
Tight finish ahead
With five matches to go, the Champions League chase is heating up. Chelsea, Nottingham Forest, and Arsenal still have games in hand this Sunday, keeping the pressure on the teams above them.