In this video
- Emery says his side did not control the first half or create enough, and Bologna deserved more. Set pieces, a big focus for this match, gave them the advantage.
- In the second half the midfield connected with the strikers through more passes instead of going to them directly. They scored the second goal and did not concede much, he says.
- Emery calls the reaction after Bologna scored fantastic, with another goal from a corner. It is only the first leg, he says, and the second will need the same discipline.
“…he is always doing his task and working for the team.”
- Emery says the way Watkins competes is the message for the squad, and an example for another striker who needs to adapt. Two goals tonight are positive for him and for the team.
- Asked about Jonathan Rowe, Emery says he has improved steadily since the first meeting this season and scored a fantastic goal. He troubled them more than they had planned.
Aston Villa manager Unai Emery praised Ollie Watkins after the striker delivered a huge two-goal performance in Villa’s important Europa League win over Bologna.
Emery described Watkins as a fighter who always works for the team, whether he scores or not, and said his finishing made a big difference in a tightly contested first leg.
The Villa boss also reflected on the intensity of the match, admitting Bologna caused problems at times and deserved respect throughout the game. Emery highlighted Aston Villa’s improvement in the second half, where better passing, stronger connections in attack, and more control helped the team create the platform for Watkins to strike.
With the tie still alive heading into the second leg, can Ollie Watkins lead Aston Villa one step closer to the Europa League semi-finals?
