‘A incredible job’ – Emery hails goalkeeper and defence after Villa beat Brentford

Unai Emery hailed his “incredible” goalkeeper and defence as Aston Villa ran out 1-0 winners in a carefully fought contest in opposition to Brentford within the Premier League.

Ollie Watkins scored in opposition to his former workforce shortly after half-time to safe Villa’s victory on the Gtech Neighborhood Stadium and solely their second league win within the final eight matches.

Morgan Rogers noticed a aim chalked off for offside as Emery’s workforce – who had been with out first-choice goalkeeper Emi Martinez – defended resolutely to see out the tie and choose up an essential three factors.

Three factors earned 😤 #BREAVL pic.twitter.com/HZlmrOU1Dp

— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) March 8, 2025

Robin Olsen got here in to switch Martinez and his efficiency, in addition to that of the again 4 in entrance of him, was singled out for reward from Emery.

“We did a incredible job. The primary half we dominated, we created probabilities, we performed wishing to win,” mentioned the Villa boss.

“Within the second-half they had been pushing us to defend in a low block, and we wanted the goalkeeper. Improbable job he did. And the again 4 as properly, they did a incredible job.”

Emery additionally highlighted the significance of constructing momentum going into the second-leg of their Champions League Spherical of 16 tie in opposition to Membership Brugge with Villa main 3-1.

After that, Emery’s facet don’t play within the league till April and the Spaniard insisted the win was good for morale.

“I’m very pleased with the gamers,” Emery mentioned. “We deliberate this match as key as a result of we aren’t going to play within the Premier League for 25 days, roughly.

“To try to really feel extra comfy, assured, to consider in our means, it was crucial to compete right now and attempt to get these three factors.”