Aston Villa's hopes of securing Champions League football suffered a setback as they were held to a 2-2 draw by already-relegated Burnley at Turf Moor. The result leaves Unai Emery's side needing points from their final two matches against Liverpool and Manchester City to guarantee a top-five finish, or they may have to rely on success in the Europa League.
Match Summary
Burnley took the lead through Jaidon Anthony, who capitalised on a parried save from Emiliano Martinez. Villa equalised through Ross Barkley, but Zian Flemming restored Burnley's lead with a fine finish. Ollie Watkins scored his eighth goal in ten games to secure a point for Villa, but the visitors were unable to find a winner.
Emery's Dilemma
Unai Emery admitted his side are struggling in the second half of the season, having taken only 17 points from their last 16 league games. With a Europa League semi-final second leg against Freiburg to come, Emery faces a tough decision on whether to rest players for the crucial league fixtures.
"We are not achieving the points like in the first half," Emery said. "Today the point is not enough." Villa's recent form has been patchy, with only one win in their last three league outings.
Burnley's Performance
Burnley, who have not won a home league match since October, showed great character to earn a point. Caretaker manager Michael Jackson praised Zian Flemming, who took his tally to ten Premier League goals this season. "Zian has been incredible," Jackson said. "He showed a lot of character."
Watkins' Form
Ollie Watkins continued his impressive run of form, scoring his eighth goal in ten games. The striker is pressing his case for a place in England's World Cup squad. "He is doing fantastic," Emery said. "He is a fighter."
Villa now face a crucial week that will define their season. A win against Liverpool on Friday could secure Champions League qualification, but defeat would pile the pressure on their final match against Manchester City.
