Aston Villa finally secured their first Premier League win of the season, coming from behind to beat Fulham 3-1 at Villa Park on Sunday.
Ollie Watkins ended his nine-game goal drought to spark the comeback, while captain John McGinn and substitute Emi Buendia struck in quick succession to ensure the points stayed in Birmingham. The result eases pressure on Unai Emery after a concerning run of five winless league games.
Fulham had stunned the hosts early when Raul Jimenez opened the scoring in the third minute with a well-taken header. However, the Mexican striker’s evening ended prematurely after he picked up an injury shortly afterward, dealing a blow to the visitors.
Watkins, who had not scored since last season, struck a crucial equaliser in the first half, restoring belief in a Villa side that had been listless in recent weeks. The forward, who scored 16 league goals last term, remains central to Villa’s ambitions given their lack of alternative striking options.
The game turned decisively after the break. McGinn put Villa ahead with a clinical finish before Buendia, introduced as a substitute, added a third just two minutes later. It was the Argentine’s first goal in a year, providing another timely boost for the team.
Fulham, who have historically struggled at Villa Park with only one win in their past 22 visits, faded after their bright start. Despite Ezri Konsa needing to clear off the line from Sasa Lukic, Marco Silva’s side never truly threatened a comeback.
While this was far from Villa at their fluid best, the victory was a much-needed tonic. Emery’s men looked vulnerable in the first half but showed resilience to fight back, supported by a lively home crowd desperate to see improvement.
The timing could not be better. Villa now turn their attention to Thursday’s Europa League trip to Feyenoord, followed by a league clash against Burnley. The victory, coupled with Thursday’s narrow European win over Bologna, helps to steady the narrative around the team’s season.
For Watkins, the relief was clear. Ending his longest goal drought in a Villa shirt not only lifted his confidence but also removed one of the main obstacles holding the team back.
Three points, three goals, and renewed hope mean Villa can look ahead with optimism after weeks of frustration.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
