Emery: I’m so happy

Unai Emery spoke of his happiness and pride after Aston Villa’s absorbing 2-1 victory over Premier League leaders Arsenal.

Emi Buendía curled home a dramatic 95th-minute winner with almost the last kick of a captivating contest to fire Villa to a pulsating triumph – sparking unforgettable celebratory scenes as Villa Park erupted.

Matty Cash’s clinical finish had earlier given the hosts a half-time lead, which was cancelled out by Gunners substitute Leandro Trossard’s close-range finish.

The victory, deep into injury time of a high-quality clash, saw Emery’s side record a seventh successive win and 13th in 15 matches in all competitions.

“I’m so, so happy,” he told VillaTV.

“I’m very proud how our supporters enjoyed this match.

“We wanted to play thinking here at Villa Park to transmit our supporters our energy, our wishes, our style, idea; playing with energy, intensity, playing football like we played.

“And, as well, when we needed some help through the supporters, transmitting us their energy and support.

“We were sometimes struggling, or sometimes they were dominating, but we were always, more or less, feeling good.

“And, through it, during the match, when they drew level, we were again recovering our domination through our combination with the players, taking passes and getting into the box.

“I think we were close to scoring but, of course, when you are going, maybe they can as well get some transition and score a goal.

“But we were pushing and we were really, really believing in our victory.

“And we pushed until the last minute, and we got it.”

Since March, no side has won more Premier League matches than Villa (17). And the club’s home form is even more impressive.

Indeed, since falling to defeat in last August’s corresponding fixture against the Gunners, Villa have now lost just one of our last 26 home league games, winning each of the club’s previous six.

Saturday’s latest success came against a Gunners side who had previously lost just one of their 21 matches this season, and also just one of their last 21 Premier League away games.

Asked about Villa’s stunning home form in B6, Emery said: “Yes, game by game, and enjoying each moment.

“Today we must be happy, the supporters, Aston Villa fans and ourselves because we did the job we needed.

“Of course, we got three points and we are, in the Premier League, the most difficult league in the world, more or less, now feeling strong and feeling comfortable.

“But this is a race for 38 matches and we are on 15.”