Aston Villa were held to a draw by West Ham, Emery said the team lacked a strong performance

In the 23rd round of the 2024/25 Premier League, Aston Villa took the lead with a goal contributed by Ramsey, but conceded a goal in the second half and was tied 1-1 by West Ham. Emery said that although his team was in control of the game, it lacked its usual strong performance.

Eight minutes into the game, Watkins made a diagonal pass, Ramsey received it and broke into the penalty area with a shovel shot, helping Aston Villa take the lead 1-0.

In the 70th minute of the second half, Edson Alvarez made a lob pass into the penalty area, and Palmieri immediately stepped forward and headed the ball into the goal, helping West Ham to equalize the score at 1-1.

In the end, Aston Villa was tied with West Ham at home with a score of 1-1. After 2 wins and 3 draws in the last 5 rounds, Aston Villa is currently ranked 8th in the standings with 37 points, 4 points behind Manchester City in 4th place.

Aston Villa coach Emery said in an interview, "We started the game very well, taking the initiative on the field and putting pressure on the opponent through our position. We limited the opponent's possibility of creating scoring opportunities and performed well in defense. However, we only scored one goal in the whole game, and it was difficult for us to maintain our advantage, and the opponent eventually scored and equalized the score."

“We lacked energy, so we brought on John Duran, Malen and Buendia, but maybe it was the lack of midfield and center backs, and using Lucas Digne instead of Mings at center back, that we didn’t have the strong performance we usually have.”

Emery also said, "We have two players in each position in the lineup, but Pau Torres is injured and another central defender Diego Carlos has left the team. However, we have a versatile player Lamar Bogard, but Lamar Bogard is also suitable to play in midfield, right central defender or right back."

"As for the left centre-back position it is more difficult for him because I want to use a left-footed player when attacking from the back."

On the other hand, Aston Villa will host Celtic in the next round of the Champions League. Aston Villa is currently ranked 9th in the standings with 13 points, so Emery's team must win to have a chance to advance directly to the round of 16.