Jhon Duran, so often Aston Villa’s ‘super sub’, made his first Premier League start of the season with the winning goal to deepen Southampton’s relegation fears.
The Colombian striker has made 50 league appearances for Villa and only three of those have been one of Unai Emery’s starters, so there was a gentle reminder of what he can do from the first minute.
There’s no doubt that Ollie Watkins is Emery’s No.1, but the competition won’t hurt Villa once he gets over his mini-jump. Back-to-back wins this week mean they are back within striking distance of the Champions League places.
As for Southampton, they were once again at fault for their defeat, with the crucial goal being an elementary mistake. They still need a few points to better Sheffield United’s record low of nine points at Christmas. Getting these points will require a change in approach.
An early Christmas present for Villa from Lumley
Duran’s goal came after a few minutes of chaos at the back for a Southampton team that has been their downfall this season. Their best chance, from Ryan Manning, came on a field trip-one punt, yet they continue to come from behind and eventually run into trouble.
Saints keeper Joe Lumley tried to play the ball in and was picked out by Boubacar Kamara, with John McGinn seeing his shot saved as the ball broke into his path. Taylor Harwood-Bellis should have parried another attack but he tried to control Pau Torres’ long ball forward and paid for it.
Duran seized possession and used his pace to stay behind Southampton’s backline before finishing past Lumley. It was his first goal since October 30 and his ninth of the season.
Villa were almost under threat in the second half even though they lost Leon Bailey to a hamstring injury, a problem heading into the Christmas games.