Aston Villa’s seemingly never-ending winless run finally came to an end thanks to a 2-0 victory over Norwich City at Villa Park.
Danny Ings was the difference maker on the day. His forced introduction towards the end of the first-half in place of the injured Leon Bailey turned into a blessing in disguise as he bagged himself an assist and goal.
It was a result desperately needed after a miserable last month for the claret & blue but one that had consequences for former manager Dean Smith and Norwich City, who were relegated at full-time.
A game that will certainly not live long in the memory but a win is a win.
Aston Villa (4-3-3): Martinez; Cash, Mings, Chambers, Digne; Ramsey, Iroegbunam (73’ Luiz), McGinn; Bailey (40’ Ings), Watkins, Coutinho (76’ Buendia)
Subs not used: Olsen, Konsa, Traore, Young, Nakamba, Chukwuemeka
Norwich City (4-2-3-1): Krul; Aarons, Byram, Hanley, Dowell, Normann, Rashica (77’ Rowe), Lees-Melou (67’ Sargent) (81’ Rupp), Williams, Pukki, Gilmour
Subs not used: Gunn, Gibson, Placheta, Sorensen, Giannoulis
9. Philippe Coutinho - 6.5
A bright start from the Brazilian who looked like he was going to be on it today but faded badly. | Getty Images
10. Ollie Watkins - 7
Took his goal superbly. Maybe could have had another one or two. | Getty Images
11. Leon Bailey - 5
Was tackled by Brandon Williams early on and never recovered. Did nearly bend one into the top bins but for an excellent Tim Krul save though. Replaced by Ings on 40. | Getty Images
12. SUB Danny Ings - 8*
Man-of-the-match and only played half of the game. An excellent assist for the first and a well taken goal at the end. Made a difference. | Getty Images