Aston Villa suffered a shocking defeat against the newly-promoted Bournemouth in the opening gameweek. But they bounced back last weekend with a crucial victory versus Everton at Villa Park. Meanwhile, the Villans had a tricky test this afternoon at Selhurst Park, and they suffered yet another humiliation despite Ollie Watkins’ early opener. Wilfried Zaha’s brace and Jean-Phillippe Mateta’s goal helped Crystal Palace register a commanding win against Steven Gerrard’s side.
Below are the Aston Villa players rated in their 3-1 defeat against Crystal Palace.
Emiliano Martinez: 7.5
The scoreline would have been worse had he not made some massive stops. Denied Zaha from the spot, but the Eagles attacker scored from the rebound.
Matty Cash: 5.5
Was dribbled past time and again and looked nervy while performing his defensive duties. Offered little threat high up the pitch.
Ezri Konsa: 5
Was all over the place as he looked clueless against the pace and movement of Zaha, Jordan Ayew and Odsonne Edouard. Martinez in goal saved the centre-half from more humiliation.
Tyrone Mings: 5.5
Although he played his part in the build-up of Watkins’ goal, another dreadful defensive display raises questions about his ability to perform consistently at the highest level.
Lucas Digne: 5
Conceded a shocking spot-kick that shifted the momentum and earned the hosts a lead around the hour mark. Made some recoveries but lost the majority of duels down the left-hand flank.
Boubacar Kamara: 7
Showed some grit and determination against Palace’s quick attacking transitions. Broke down a few moves in the middle of the park, but he needs time to attune to the demands of English football.
John McGinn: 6
Looked out of depth in midfield. Got dispossessed twice, and his tackles were clumsy. Offered little creativity as a ‘number 8’ and was replaced by Douglas Luiz midway through the second half.
Jacob Ramsey: 6.5
Showed glimpses of his quality with the ball on his feet. But he failed to make an overall impact as his off-the-ball work rate should have been a lot better.
Leon Bailey: 7.5
Set it up for Watkins early into the game. Also, his stellar strike hit the woodwork during the contest. Made way for Danny Ings midway through the second half.
Emiliano Buendia: 7
Had an effort denied by Vicente Guaita in the Palace goal. Looked sharp with his dribbling attempts, but the Argentine ran out of ideas before making way for Philippe Coutinho.
Ollie Watkins: 7
Showed his finishing trait to find the net 5 minutes into the contest. Had the least number of touches otherwise.
Aston Villa Subs Vs Crystal Palace
Danny Ings: 6
Could not make any noteworthy contribution since replacing Bailey.
Douglas Luiz: 6.5
Looked sharp and purposeful during the remainder of the contest.
Philippe Coutinho: 6.5
Tried to offer his creative spark in and around the attacking third.
