Overview

• John McGinn’s 13th‑minute strike from around 20 yards sealed a 1-0 victory over Bologna at Villa Park to open Villa’s Europa League group campaign.
• Substitute Ollie Watkins had a second‑half penalty saved, extending his scoreless run to eight games for club and country this season.
• Stand-in goalkeeper Marco Bizot protected the lead with late saves, including from Martin Vitik’s header, as Emiliano Martínez missed out with a minor muscle issue and is hoped to be fit for Fulham.
• Unai Emery said the result is a starting point and urged his side to find consistency ahead of Sunday’s Premier League fixture.
• Morgan Rogers struggled and drew audible frustration from home supporters, with Emery acknowledging he “didn’t play well” but insisting he kept him on to learn from the experience.