Better Days Ahead

Aston Villa may have gone down 2-0 to Reading at the Madejski Stadium, but there was enough in the performance to give manager Martin O’Neill encouragement for the future.

To begin with, they could have been two goals up in the first 14 minutes. First Ashley Young misjudged Gareth Barry’s cross as Reading’s back line moved out in the hope of an offside decision. Then a fabulous left flank cross from Young was barely a foot in front of the onrushing Agbonlahor.

They also impressed with a bright start to the second half, with a more aggressive attitude, lots of possession and some good chances – especially for Ashley Young, who shot just wide of the far post six minutes after the interval and two minutes later saw another effort deflected off Carew and onto the post.

But most of all it was the impact of Martin O’Neill’s new signings – the revitalising effect they have had on the whole team. John Carew, in particular, is a massive presence up front – strong, experienced, brilliant at holding the ball up and clearly developing a good understanding with Ashley Young.