Aston Villa go to top of Group F

Posted on Friday, November 7th, 2008 at 12:27 pm and is filed under News.

Aston Villa moved themselves into contention for a place in the knockout rounds of the 2008 UEFA Europa League by defeating Slavia Prague 1-0 in Prague last night.

Aston Villa’s winning goal was scored by Steve Sidwell, whose powerful low strike deflected off two players before finding the back of the net with the clock on 26 minutes.

Despite failing to score again, Aston Villa dominated the home team in the first half, creating a number of excellent scoring opportunities. Slavia Prague, meanwhile, looked outclassed and never threatened the Aston Villa goal. The second half was a more balanced affair, with Slavia twice putting the Aston Villa ‘keeper under pressure.

“We were really great in the first half. Maybe we could have scored more goals,” Aston Villa manager Martin O’Neill said after the match. “I think we deserved to win.”

The result of Thursday evening’s match leaves Aston Villa at the summit of Group F with 6 points from 2 games. Hamburg and Ajax Amsterdam are tied for second place with 3 points apiece.

“I believe now that seven points will definitely get us through” O’Neill concluded.