Particle.news
Download on the App Store
9 ARTICLES
·
2d ago

Villa Claim First Pre-Season Win With 2-1 Victory Over St. Louis City

The Villans return to Nashville to face Nashville SC on Saturday under Emery’s rotation policy designed to evaluate every player ahead of the Premier League.

Image
Aston Villa's English striker #11 Ollie Watkins controls the ball during the English Premier League football match between Aston Villa and Fulham at Villa Park in Birmingham, central England on May 3, 2025.
Image
Image

Overview

  • Aston Villa earned their first pre-season win with a 2-1 victory over St. Louis City at Energizer Park thanks to goals from Morgan Rogers and a header by Ollie Watkins.
  • Emi Martínez and John McGinn made their first appearances of the summer tour in Missouri, with McGinn earning man-of-the-match honors for his midfield dominance.
  • Donyell Malen notched his third assist in two U.S. friendlies, continuing his strong creative form during pre-season.
  • Unai Emery emphasised squad-wide trials by rotating senior internationals, fringe players, and youth prospects to build fitness and assess depth.
  • Young academy talents Jamal Jimoh-Aloba, Travis Patterson, and Triston Rowe impressed with their contributions as Villa balance tactical tests with player development.