Fulham showed great determination by fighting until the final whistle despite falling behind. Their resilience was evident when Muniz capitalized on a chance, scoring by redirecting Robinson’s cross into an empty net. Silva’s side came close to completing a remarkable comeback, with Muniz’s shot blocked and Wilson narrowly missing the target with a powerful volley from Pereira’s set-piece.
Wilson was unlucky when his deflected shot went wide, leading to a controversial decision by the referee to award a goal kick. Fulham pushed hard in the closing stages, testing Villa’s defense. Martinez’s brilliant saves, denying Iwobi and Traore, showcased his exceptional skills as Villa managed to hold on for a crucial victory.
Fulham’s lineup featured Leno in goal, with Castagne, A. Robinson, Diop, and Ream in defense. Palhinha and Cairney operated in midfield, supporting De Cordova-Reid, Willian, and Pereira in attack alongside Muniz. Villa, on the other hand, lined up with Martinez in goal, backed by Cash, Moreno, Torres, and Lenglet in defense. Luiz and Tielemens controlled the midfield, while Bailey, Ramsey, and McGinn supported Watkins up front.
The match saw bookings for players from both sides, including Palhinha, Castagne, Lukic, Traore, and Wilson. Muniz scored the lone goal for Fulham in the 63rd minute, while Watkins netted twice for Aston Villa in the 23rd and 56th minutes, securing their victory.
Referee Lewis Smith officiated the game in front of a crowd of 24,401 spectators. Despite Fulham’s spirited performance, Aston Villa emerged victorious, with Watkins proving to be the difference-maker with his crucial goals.
