Emi Martínez lauded a professional display at Villa Park, as Aston Villa booked their place in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup with a 2-0 win over Cardiff City.
Unai Emery’s side were frustrated in the opening period of their clash with the disciplined Championship outfit, before Marco Asensio’s second-half double proved the difference.
The goalkeeper praised his side’s professionalism and persistence to break down the Bluebirds’ low block and secure their passage through to the last eight.
Speaking on the VillaTV Post-Match Live show, Martínez said: “It was dangerous. It was a tricky game. We were the favourites to win against a Championship side fighting relegation.
“They sat in a low block, and we struggled against low blocks lately. They had a few counter attacks, actually five minutes before we scored, they had a clear chance to score.
“We experienced that before. We played Forest, low block, Ipswich, low block, and we struggled to win in the Premier League.
“I think we did a good job today. We should have won by four, five goals.”
With the Villans now just one win from a Wembley semi-final, Martínez is determined to help give the supporters special memories this season, in a competition which means so much.
The Argentinian, a three-time winner, insists he has taken responsibility to spread the importance of the FA Cup through the dressing room.
He added: “It’s massive. I won it three times with Arsenal. I know the feeling. I know that trip to Wembley.
“For me, when I won it with Arsenal last time, it was one of my best days since I came to the UK, so I’m trying to tell all the young lads like Morgan, like JJ, how important it is to win this cup, and for the supporters to go to Wembley.
“My first target with the goalie coach is to take Villa to Wembley, and I won’t stop until I do it.”
