Emery hails Ollie Watkins after striker nets brace in Brighton comeback

Emery hails Ollie Watkins after striker nets brace in Brighton comeback

December 4, 2025


The England worldwide had solely beforehand scored as soon as within the top-flight this season

Unai Emery hailed striker Ollie Watkins after the England worldwide netted twice as Aston Villa got here from behind to safe victory over Brighton in a seven-goal thriller.

Watkins scored each targets earlier than half time after Emery’s aspect had fallen behind to a Jan Paul van Hecke header and Pau Torres personal purpose.

Amadou Onana accomplished the comeback on the hour mark earlier than substitute Donyell Malen gave Villa respiration area with 12 minutes remaining.

Van Hecke pulled one again 5 minutes later to make it an thrilling end on the Amex Stadium however the guests held on to make it six successive wins in all competitions and transfer as much as third within the Premier League.

Emery, who turned the supervisor with essentially the most Premier League wins for Villa, was filled with reward for Watkins, who had beforehand scored simply as soon as within the league all season.

“He [Watkins] scored in several methods. Within the field and as nicely one lengthy ball behind the defence. It was an ideal end,” Emery stated.

“With Ollie, he provides me confidence when he’s working. Not scoring, his confidence will get low, however the targets had been coming.”

The Villa boss additionally hailed the efforts of his gamers, calling their response after going behind “implausible”.

Emery added: “At present we reacted just like the season. We began poor in August. At present we didn’t begin good. The primary purpose shouldn’t have been a nook. We’re including experiences and as we speak yet one more.

“The gamers reacted and competed implausible. We would have liked some good luck at moments at 2-0 down. We then felt higher on the sphere. Within the dressing room we spoke about specializing in the sport plan. After we reacted, the gamers adopted it they usually competed.”

Subsequent up for Villa is the go to of league leaders Arsenal on Saturday.

Steven is a passionate sports enthusiast and writer who enjoys sharing insights, stories, and analysis from the world of football and beyond. With a keen eye for detail and a love for the game, he brings readers closer to the action while keeping them informed and entertained.