Morgan Rogers was the standout performer, scoring twice to inspire Aston Villa to a gritty 2-1 win against Manchester United in Sunday’s Premier League showdown.
The England international further strengthened his chances of making Thomas Tuchel’s highly-competitive squad with another inspiring display for the in-form Villa.
Unai Emery’s side headed into the clash on the back on nine straight wins in all competitions and a chance to close the gap at the top to just three points.
Man United, meanwhile, went into the clash without Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo, both of whom were representing Cameroon and Ivory Coast respectively at the 2025 African Cup of Nations tournament.
Both goalkeepers were called into action in the first half as Emiliano Martinez saved from Benjamin Sesko, while Senne Lammens kept out McGinn.
However, Rogers broke the deadlock with a stunning strike on the stroke of halftime from inside the 18 yard area.
There was still time for the Red Devils to score a goal of theirs, as Patrick Dorgu dispossessed Matty Cash, allowing Matheus Cunha to rifle home past Martinez in first half stoppage-time.
Ruben Amorim’s side were dealt a huge blow as captain Bruno Fernandes who initially struggled with injury in the first half, came off at the break unable to continue.
Rogers got his second of the game in the 57th minute, curling another superb effort beyond Lammens.
Cunha wasted another chance to pull level when he missed a free header, while Mason Mount also missed another chance to equalize.
Aston Villa sealed a 2-1 win to record their 10th consecutive win in all competitions and move to within three points of league leaders Arsenal.
Man United, on the other hand, remain in seventh place with 26 points, three behind fourth-placed Chelsea.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
