Tottenham Hotspur moved out of the Premier League relegation zone with a crucial 2-1 victory over Aston Villa at Villa Park, their first back-to-back league wins since August. Goals from Conor Gallagher and Richarlison in the first half sealed the points for Roberto De Zerbi's side, who now sit above West Ham in the table.
Gallagher opened the scoring in the 12th minute with a powerful 25-yard strike, his first goal for the club. Richarlison doubled the lead from close range after a corner in the 25th minute, capitalising on a Villa error. The visitors dominated proceedings, pressing high and winning possession all over the pitch, reminiscent of De Zerbi's tactics at Brighton.
Aston Villa, with one eye on their Europa League semi-final second leg against Nottingham Forest, made seven changes and produced a lacklustre display. They managed only one shot on target, a late header from Emiliano Buendia in stoppage time, which proved a consolation. Unai Emery's side missed the chance to all but secure a Champions League spot.
Tottenham's win lifts them to 17th, one point above the relegation zone, with a home game against Leeds United next. The victory provides a significant boost to their survival hopes under De Zerbi, who has revitalised a team that previously looked destined for relegation.
