Wolves dominated the first half at Villa Park, taking the lead with Matheus Cunha opening goal. But Villa battled back and produced an incredible comeback just as they did against Everton last week.
Ollie Watkins equalized at 73rd minutes before Ezri Konsa scored to give Unai Emery’s team the lead in the 88th minute. In-form Jhon Duran sealed the win in stoppage time.This propelled Villa to third position with 12 points, while Wolves dropped to the bottom of the league.
The visitors gained confidence after their first goal, with Rayan Ait-Nouri nearly doubling their lead with a volley from inside the box. Wolves goalkeeper Sam Johnstone made no saves in the first 45 minutes. Villa made progress after the break, with Yerson Mosquera clearing off the line from Watkins.
The comeback was complete when Konsa flew in to meet Youri Tielemans’ cross. There was further delight for the home side when Duran slotted into an empty net after more good work from Rogers few minutes into stoppage time.
Emery’s team have had an emotional and exhausting week. A 3-0 triumph against Young Boys in their first encounter in Europe’s premier club tournament, as well as the death of a beloved former player, Gary Shaw. Shaw was honored prior to the match.
Villa’s midweek exploits were likely a big cause for a sluggish first half performance. They failed to register a shot on goal and constantly lost possession to Wolves.
Emery made changes at half-time, bringing in Leon Bailey and Ian Maatsen. Bailey made a significant difference down the right. He stretched the game and provided a real outlet. Rogers and Watkins worked well together to equalize. Emery will be pleased to see Duran score again.
Villa is riding high, equal on points with Liverpool and Arsenal. They will play Wycombe Wanderers in the EFL Cup in midweek. Just before facing Ipswich Town on September 29. Wolves were well-organised from the start. They denied Villa players much space in the centre thereby limiting the attacking runs of Watkins and Rogers.
Unai Emery said post-match: “We were suffering in the first half but the second half was completely different. I am very happy because we won. It was very important we changed our energy and we played to win in the second half.”
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