Watkins reflects on ‘tough’ game

Ollie Watkins admitted Aston Villa’s draw at Burnley on Sunday was a difficult test for he and his teammates.

The already-relegated Clarets took the lead early on before pegging Villa back to 2-2 after Watkins’ goal had put them 2-1 ahead in the second half.

And the England forward felt the visitors were feeling the effects of a huge shift in the Europa League in midweek, against an outfit with a point to prove.

Speaking after the match, Watkins said: “It was a tough game, really tough game. As you’ve seen in recent weeks, I think they’ve become a lot stronger. (Manchester) City came here and only won 1-0, it’s always difficult to come here.

“I think in the end, a valuable point after going a goal behind, but it’s disappointing really, the fact that obviously we got ourselves in front and let it slip away.

“We had an amazing result in Europe a few days ago, and the amount of energy and effort you put into them games, you’re leaving it all out on the pitch.

“To go again and recover in 48 hours is tough. We’re playing against a team that are strong and obviously (have) a point to prove – trying to get as many point as they can before the end of the season.

“It’s always difficult when you’re playing against teams that maybe don’t play in midweek and have a lot of energy.

“In the end, I think it’s a good point – if you can’t win, then don’t lose.”

A 17th goal of the season in all competitions means Watkins has only ever notched more once in his Villa career so far, in 2023/24.

He described his goal, which saw Emi Martínez find him with a long ball upfield, before looking ahead to a mouth-watering final home game of the season against Liverpool next Friday (ko 8pm).

“Long ball over the top and it actually hit my shoulder,” the 30-year-old added. 

“I was disappointed with my goal being ruled out in the first half because I felt like it was a great team goal.

“But Emi found me, and the ‘keeper came out and made my mind up for me.

“We’re back at Villa Park against Liverpool, we always do well there, so it’s going to be difficult for them.

“We always make it difficult for them, and it’s going to be an enjoyable last home game of the season.”