Premier League news: Aston Villa’s title charge stumbles at Villa Park as Brentford grab narrow win
Aston Villa suffered a disappointing 1-0 home defeat to Brentford in the Premier League on Sunday – a result that dealt a significant blow to their title bid.
Here, Sports News Blitz writer Harrison Pearce reflects on a controversial clash.
VAR denies hosts
Brentford’s Dango Ouattara proved the difference on the day, firing a brilliant strike into the top corner in first-half stoppage time to give the visitors a shock lead.
Despite being reduced to 10 men thanks to Kevin Schade’s 42nd-minute sending off for violent conduct, Brentford defended resolutely to hold onto their advantage at Villa Park.
Villa dominated possession after the break and created a stream of chances but could not find a way through the Bees’ organised defence.
Tammy Abraham, making his second debut for Villa having returned in the January transfer window, thought he had levelled early in the second half.
However, his effort was controversially ruled out by VAR following a lengthy review that judged the ball had gone out of play in the build-up.
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Title hopes slipping
The defeat was a bitter blow for Unai Emery’s side.
Villa remain in the Premier League’s top four, yet their gap to leaders Arsenal has widened and the loss marks back-to-back home league defeats – a rare occurrence in recent seasons.
Emery acknowledged Villa’s dominance post-match but admitted his side faced a stubborn defensive display from Brentford that was difficult to break down.
Visiting boss Keith Andrews praised his team’s resilience and tactical discipline after overcoming a numerical disadvantage to secure an impressive victory.
While Villa will rue missed opportunities and the controversial refereeing decision, Brentford can take confidence from a gritty performance that moves them solidly into the hunt for a European place.
Overall, it was a day of frustration for Villa and joy for the Bees, not to mention a reminder of just how fine the margins can be in the Premier League title race.
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