Aston Villa: Ollie Watkins amazes yet again at Villa Park as ‘terrific’ verdict emerges
Ollie Watkins proved to be the difference-maker yet again at Villa Park as Aston Villa ran out 2-1 victors against Lille in the Europa Conference League.
The striker opened the scoring for Unai Emery’s side and laid the foundations for the eventual 2-1 victory thanks to a goal from captain John McGinn.
Lucy Ward described Watkins as “terrific” live on commentary as she was wowed by Villa’s set-piece routine which the Englishman took full advantage of with the goal.
Speaking live on TNT Sports [11 April, 20:13], Ward explained: “That was a really, really well-worked set piece. It’s all about the movement to get free and it just means that Watkins is free.
“All of a sudden you just take away the defenders. It’s all about isolating Watkins so he has a free header. What a great start from Villa. He’s had a couple of chances already Watkins, and that was probably the hardest of the lot. It’s terrific.”
Ollie Watkins “terrific” for Aston Villa v Lille
His display cannot exactly be described as polished, but it was an impressive one nonetheless as Watkins stepped up yet again to prove he is the talisman in this Aston Villa team.
With just a 64 per cent passing accuracy, completing just nine passes all night, while he also recorded a zero per cent duel success rate and dribble success rate on a frustrating night in possession, Watkins still managed to display his importance. [Sofascore]
The striker managed to get five shots off during the game, hitting the target with two while two were blocked and one missed the target, finding the net from a total of 0.64xG as he continued his impressive form in front of goal.
Not only was he impressive when handed opportunities to shoot, but of his nine completed passes on the night, Watkins managed to rack up three key passes and a 100 per cent long pass accuracy as he provided opportunities for his teammates to take advantage.
Watkins’ ability to step up when needed has been questioned at times this season, but despite a frustrating performance overall against Lille, he made a telling difference once more to help Villa put one foot in the semi-final.
In other Aston Villa news, Youri Tielemans struggled yet again in midfield.
For more Aston Villa news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.