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That's all from us today. Thanks for joining us for a sunny Premier League Saturday.
We'll be back to do it all over again tomorrow, with eight teams in action - including a certain two from Manchester.
Here's what you can look forward to...
See you then!
Here's a quick reminder of today's results in the Premier League. If you missed any of the action, you can catch up by reading the reports below or tune into Match of the Day from 22:20 BST on BBC One.
FT: Aston Villa 2-1 Nottingham Forest
Aston Villa manager Unai Emery speaking to BBC Match of the Day: "Good to win today but there's still work to do. We have got all nine points from the past three matches and it's very important that we are reducing the distance to the team in front. It's still very difficult to achieve as our objective is to get Europe again through the Premier League. We enjoy competing in the Champions League and the FA Cup, but the Premier League is the most important because it is through the league that we can reach our objective for the next season.
"The players are focused in every match - be it FA Cup, Champions League or Premier League. We have to manage the players intelligently to get the best out of them. Sometimes they might not start and sometimes we can get an impact from them as substitutes. This is most important - to see how we can be stronger as a team in each match."
On how his team performed with rotations: "We played fantastic in the first half hour. We dominated and had the chances. In the second half, we tried to keep possession and we still had chances to score. But they scored once but we have to try to be demanding on how we want to dominate and impose our stature tactically."
On Nottingham Forest: "Nottingham were competing very well today. They are favourites to get top five in the league. We are going to focus every match to try to get the best out of each match we are playing. We need to enjoy what we are doing."
On facing his former club Paris St-Germain in the Champions League next: "For the club, for the players and for me as a coach, it's a huge challenge. We are very excited and motivated. They are favourites but we are going to try to prepare as best as possible to compete against a very good team, very good players and a very good coach. We will try to enjoy the first leg in Paris and the second leg here."
Here's how things stand in the Premier League after today's games...
Image source, Getty ImagesFT: Ipswich 1-2 Wolves
Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna speaking to BBC Sport:
"Sad dressing room, sad stadium. Players put everything into the game and across the season. Big effort to go again after Wednesday, found that in the first half but second half we didn't find same energy level. Players gave everything, just couldn't get result we wanted.
"Different games across the course of the season but a lot where we have been really competitive. More often lost by tight margins. A lot have been late in the game, when teams bring on top subs and find the big moments late in the game. Not an atypical game, a lot of positives in how we've competed across the game, the week, the season. Just not been able to get the results we wanted.
"It's not about this season but over the last three seasons. From the middle of League One to the Premier League has been a hell of an assent. We've tackled the season in the best way we thought we could. Everyone's given a lot of work, we'll go right to the end. We're probably going to fall short of what we wanted but so many things to be proud of and a bright future for the club.
"It's not about belief in the table because we know the large probability is we'll fall short but Wolves are a strong team. There's belief in the work, that we can compete with the big teams on any given day. Results is the challenge but we have big games coming up and we can be competitive.
"We believe there's a lot of growth in the group. We have some older and younger players but we have a fantastic culture in the group and the club. A great work ethic, top senior players, talented players and the club is in a position to go from strength the strength in a lot of areas. Today is a setback and there might be another coming at the end of the season but the journey isn't always in a straight upward line. We're in a great position to push on again."
FT: Ipswich 1-2 Wolves
Nizaar Kinsella
BBC Sport football news reporter
Image source, Getty ImagesIpswich are teetering on the brink. With seven games left and 12 points to make up on fourth-bottom Wolves, the battle to stay up looks over.
Jorgen Strand Larsen's scrappy 84th-minute goal settled a tense encounter between the two relegation rivals after Pablo Sarabia had cancelled out a Town opener from Liam Delap.
Defeat pushed the Tractor Boys closer to the drop in a game they simply had to win. Their fairytale rise from League One to the top flight in successive seasons looks certain to end with an immediate return to the Championship.
Wolves' comeback success at Portman Road crucially stretched them further clear of the bottom three and even Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna conceded their fight for survival looks bleak.
FT: Aston Villa 2-1 Nottingham Forest
Nuno Espirito Santo speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live: "We started the game really bad, we were not organised and we didn't close the lines. Villa broke us many times, it was a poor first half.
"We were better in the second half, we put up a big fight. In the second half we were more dominant and created problems for Aston Villa."
On playing without a number nine: "It's a big challenge for us as a team. The boys tried, but it is not the same. Strikers are used to that position, but the character and attitude is there. It's about finding solutions now as a squad."
FT: Aston Villa 2-1 Nottingham Forest
Aston Villa boss Unai Emery speaking to Sky Sports: "Yes, big win."
On first-half performance: "We started dominating. They were playing tactically, a medium-low block and we started dominating because they were not pressing high, not getting out. We were creating chances and we scored goals.
"The second half, I am not happy. They were changing their tactics and taking more duels aggressively, pressing higher and we were not dominating like we have to.
"This victory is very important. Very happy with the victory. Very demanding of myself to improve things within... I am happy because we have three points more."
On playing in the Champions League: "We are going to play two matches, the first in Paris and then coming back here. Of course we are going to prepare for two matches, but it is completely different from the game we played today."
On rotating and squad depth: "We did it in Preston as well. It is very important to manage the players we have, we are more less with the players available. Leon Bailey hopefully can be available for Paris."
Image source, Getty Images#bbcfootball, via WhatsApp on 03301231826 or text 81111 (UK only, standard message rates apply)
Resting a bunch of guys ahead of a UCL quarter final and grinding out a result against a rival top team. I haven't seen a squad like this at avfc in be my lifetime. Players coming back fit and the team finding form at the business end for once is super encouraging.
Dan
FT: Aston Villa 2-1 Nottingham Forest
Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo speaking to BBC Match of the Day: "The fight was there. We controlled the game in the second half and created a lot of chances. We reacted well to the first half. The final pass and the finishing was not there, but it will come. We started very bad. We didn't have the control and they had the chances. It was very disappointing."
On whether Ola Aina's absence affected the team: "We had some absences. It's all about finding the balance and still being able to perform."
On what his team can take away from the defeat: "We know each other very well inside the team. We know we always start really well and the big lesson was that we can't start a game as bad as we did today."
FT: Aston Villa 2-1 Nottingham Forest
Nottingham Forest defender Neco Williams speaking to Sky Sports: "First half let us down, weren't good enough first 15 minutes especially. They created way more chances and dominated. We came in and things had to change. Second half, we created many chances but it's the goals you need and unfortunately we just couldn't get them today
"Frustrating. We created many chances, we just couldn't get it over the line but the positives are there.
"That's [first-half performance] what let us down. We are usually so compact and strong in the first 15 mins because that's when teams can get at you. That's what killed us. The reaction we showed was positive. Just not enough.
"We will be straight back in to do our recovery and back on the grass to work towards Everton, another massive game. The final games are huge for us."
Image source, Getty ImagesFT: Aston Villa 2-1 Nottingham Forest
Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers speaking to Sky Sports: "It's a nice moment. We knew it was a big game. [Nottingham Forest] are doing really well in the league and they are a difficult team to play. We knew we had to start fast and we knew it was a must win if we want to get where we wanted to get in the Premier League. We were outstanding and deservedly got in front. We knew they will come back into it. They have got that quality but withstanding that pressure is massive for us."
On the impact of January signings: "That's what football is all about. The January signings have proved massive for us. We knew it was going to be important if we want to compete in the second half of the season in the three competitions. We have made changes but we all know our jobs. We were fully foucssed and the players who have come in have been outstanding. It was a good performance all around."
On his goal: "I aw Morato not looking and once Youri Tielemans go the ball, I had to make the move. He has the quality to pick me out from anywhere. I knew I had to make sure the first touch was right to get hte opportunity. It fell perfectly and I am happy to put it away. You can hear the crowd when the ball was coming over the top, so I had to be calm and composed."
On facing Paris St-Germain: "It's going to be a massive game. It's surreal to be in that game. We will go there with confidence because we are playing well at the moment. They are one the best teams in the world, there is no denying that. We are in the quarter-finals for a reason. We will go there and try to win the game as always and see where it takes us. Looking forward to it."
FT: Aston Villa 2-1 Nottingham Forest
Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo speaking to Sky Sports: "We didn't start well, Villa controlled chances. Second half was different, we had the chances but we couldn't score. First half was not good, we were not organised.
On changes at half-time: "We tried to find solutions. The boys showed a better game.
"This is the game. It was one of the matches that we created the most but didn't take anything from the game.
"When you lose you don't recover so well, the miles come to your mind. It's always easy when you are in a good moment, Now is not so good, requires a bit of patience."
On missing players: "I don't know [when they'll be back]. It's going to be day to day. He [Taiwo Awoniyi] felt something in his hamstring."
FT: Aston Villa 2-1 Nottingham Forest
That game will help Aston Villa's confidence levels heading into Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final first-leg against Paris St Germain.
And they're going to need it. Luis Enrique's team were crowned French champions earlier today with six games remaining.
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What a cracking game, end to end and Villa held on for the win and it just feels like they have taken a big step towards securing European football for a 3rd season running, simply outstanding.
Adam - UTV
Image source, PA MediaFT: Aston Villa 2-1 Nottingham Forest
That's the first time Aston Villa have won seven consecutive games in all competitions for the first time since a 10-game winning run between March and April 2019 when they were playing in the Championship.
It's the first time they've done it in the top flight since 1981.
FT: Aston Villa 2-1 Nottingham Forest
Michael Brown
Former Tottenham midfielder on BBC Radio 5 Live
We were treated. Villa were exceptional and the Morgan Rogers goal was really good. Forest couldn't find an answer or solution.
Nuno made the change and Jota was a pest and they got the goal. Then Forest were all over them and the shot from Murillo would have been a worthy equaliser. But it was too little too late for Forest because of the start they had.
#bbcfootball, via WhatsApp on 03301231826 or text 81111 (UK only, standard message rates apply)
No shame for Forest dropping points away at Villa... they are a strong side and should get into Europe. Next three Forest games are against sides in the lower half so plenty of points available.
Kevin
Aston Villa 2-1 Nottingham Forest
That win moves Aston Villa up to sixth - level on points with fifth-place Manchester City.
Amadou Onana calls the crowd to action with a few fist pumps and they react willingly, cheering at each one.
Aston Villa 2-1 Nottingham Forest
Simon Hooper blows the whistle to end a great game of football.
Aston Villa hang on to take all three points.
Image source, Getty Images| Team | Played | Won | Drawn | Lost | Goals For | Goals Against | Goal Difference | Points | Form, Last 6 games, Oldest first |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30 | 22 | 7 | 1 | 70 | 27 | 43 | 73 |
| |
| 31 | 17 | 11 | 3 | 56 | 26 | 30 | 62 |
| |
| 31 | 17 | 6 | 8 | 51 | 37 | 14 | 57 |
| |
| 30 | 15 | 7 | 8 | 54 | 37 | 17 | 52 |
| |
| 30 | 15 | 6 | 9 | 57 | 40 | 17 | 51 |
| |
| 31 | 14 | 9 | 8 | 46 | 46 | 0 | 51 |
| |
| 29 | 15 | 5 | 9 | 49 | 39 | 10 | 50 |
| |
| 31 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 49 | 47 | 2 | 47 |
| |
| 31 | 12 | 9 | 10 | 51 | 40 | 11 | 45 |
| |
| 30 | 12 | 9 | 9 | 44 | 40 | 4 | 45 |
| |
| 30 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 39 | 35 | 4 | 43 |
| |
| 30 | 12 | 5 | 13 | 51 | 47 | 4 | 41 |
| |
| 30 | 10 | 7 | 13 | 37 | 41 | -4 | 37 |
| |
| 31 | 7 | 14 | 10 | 33 | 38 | -5 | 35 |
| |
| 31 | 9 | 8 | 14 | 35 | 52 | -17 | 35 |
| |
| 30 | 10 | 4 | 16 | 55 | 44 | 11 | 34 |
| |
| 31 | 9 | 5 | 17 | 43 | 59 | -16 | 32 |
| |
| 31 | 4 | 8 | 19 | 31 | 65 | -34 | 20 |
| |
| 30 | 4 | 5 | 21 | 25 | 67 | -42 | 17 |
| |
| 30 | 2 | 4 | 24 | 22 | 71 | -49 | 10 |
|
Manager:Unai Emery
Formation:4 - 2 - 3 - 1
Manager:Nuno Espírito Santo
Formation:3 - 4 - 1 - 2
Manager:Unai Emery
Formation:4 - 2 - 3 - 1
Manager:Nuno Espírito Santo
Formation:3 - 4 - 1 - 2
High chance of scoring
Medium chance of scoring
Low chance of scoring
Dominant period
Match momentum measures the swing of the match by comparing each team’s threat to see who is more likely to score within that minute. The momentum value is the difference between each team’s most dangerous moment, or team threat, in that minute.
Match momentum measures the swing of the match by comparing each team’s threat to see who is more likely to score within that minute. The momentum value is the difference between each team’s most dangerous moment, or team threat, in that minute.
| Minute | Team with most threat |
|---|---|
Kick off 1' | Nottingham Forest |
2' | Nottingham Forest |
3' | Nottingham Forest |
4' | Aston Villa |
5' | Aston Villa |
6' | Aston Villa |
7' | Aston Villa |
8' | Aston Villa |
9' | Aston Villa |
10' | Aston Villa |
11' | Aston Villa |
12' | Aston Villa |
13' | Aston VillaGoal |
14' | Aston Villa |
15' | Aston VillaGoal |
16' | Aston Villa |
17' | Aston Villa |
18' | Nottingham Forest |
19' | Nottingham Forest |
20' | Aston Villa |
21' | Aston Villa |
22' | Aston Villa |
23' | Aston Villa |
24' | Nottingham Forest |
25' | Nottingham Forest |
26' | Nottingham Forest |
27' | Nottingham Forest |
28' | Aston Villa |
29' | Aston Villa |
30' | Aston Villa |
31' | Aston Villa |
32' | Nottingham Forest |
33' | Aston Villa |
34' | Aston Villa |
35' | Aston Villa |
36' | Aston Villa |
37' | Aston Villa |
38' | Aston Villa |
39' | Aston Villa |
40' | Aston Villa |
41' | Aston Villa |
42' | Aston Villa |
43' | Nottingham Forest |
44' | Nottingham Forest |
45' | Nottingham Forest |
Half time 45'+1 | Nottingham Forest |
46' | Aston Villa |
47' | Nottingham Forest |
48' | Nottingham Forest |
49' | Nottingham Forest |
50' | Nottingham Forest |
51' | Nottingham Forest |
52' | Nottingham Forest |
53' | Nottingham Forest |
54' | Nottingham Forest |
55' | Nottingham Forest |
56' | Nottingham Forest |
57' | Aston VillaGoal |
58' | Nottingham Forest |
59' | Nottingham Forest |
60' | Nottingham Forest |
61' | Nottingham Forest |
62' | Nottingham Forest |
63' | Nottingham Forest |
64' | Nottingham Forest |
65' | Nottingham Forest |
66' | Aston Villa |
67' | Nottingham Forest |
68' | Nottingham Forest |
69' | Nottingham Forest |
70' | Aston Villa |
71' | Nottingham Forest |
72' | Nottingham Forest |
73' | Nottingham Forest |
74' | Nottingham Forest |
75' | Aston Villa |
76' | Aston Villa |
77' | Nottingham Forest |
78' | Nottingham Forest |
79' | Nottingham Forest |
80' | Aston Villa |
81' | Aston Villa |
82' | Aston Villa |
83' | Aston Villa |
84' | Aston Villa |
85' | Nottingham Forest |
86' | Nottingham Forest |
87' | Aston Villa |
88' | Aston Villa |
89' | Aston Villa |
90' | Aston Villa |
90'+1 | Aston Villa |
90'+2 | Nottingham Forest |
90'+3 | Aston Villa |
90'+4 | Aston Villa |
Full time 90'+5 | Aston Villa |
Premier League
All competitions
All competitions
Aston Villa are unbeaten in their last eight home league games against Nottingham Forest (W5 D3) since a 2-0 loss in October 1994. They’ve scored at least twice in each of the last seven at Villa Park.
Following their 2-1 win at the City Ground in December, Nottingham Forest are looking to complete their first league double over Aston Villa since 1984-85.
Aston Villa are unbeaten in their last 14 home Premier League matches (W7 D7) since losing to Arsenal in August. Unai Emery has already had a 17-game unbeaten run at Villa Park between March and December 2023 and could be the first Villa manager since Ron Saunders in 1976-77 (18) and 1980-81 (15) to have two separate runs of 15 unbeaten top-flight home games.
Since May 2024, Nottingham Forest have won 10 of their 17 away Premier League matches (D2 L5) – that’s as many as they won in 74 away games in the competition between August 1996 and April 2024 combined (W10 D18 L46).
Since losing 2-0 to Arsenal in August, Aston Villa have avoided defeat in all seven home Premier League games when they’ve conceded first (W3 D4). It’s their most wins at Villa Park when conceding first in a single top-flight campaign since 2013-14 (3), and they’ve never done so four times in one Premier League season.
Aston Villa have had 225 shots in 15 Premier League matches at Villa Park this season, an average of 15.0 per game, their highest average in the competition since 2003-04 (15.5). Striker Ollie Watkins is averaging 4.1 shots per 90 minutes, the most by a Villa player with 500+ minutes played at home in the top-flight since Juan Pablo Ángel in 2003-04 (4.5).
Nottingham Forest’s away win Premier League win percentage this season is 54%, the first time it’s been above 50% in a top-flight season (P15 W8). Their away goals per game ratio (1.73) is their third best in a top-flight season, behind 1909-10 (1.84) and 1988-89 (1.74).
In all competitions, Aston Villa’s Marcus Rashford has been involved in seven goals in seven appearances against Nottingham Forest, all while playing for Manchester United (3 goals, 4 assists).
Across Aston Villa’s last three home games in all competitions, they’ve scored seven goals and six of them have been scored by Marco Asensio, netting a brace in each game against Chelsea, Cardiff and Club Brugge.
Chris Wood has scored three goals in six Premier League starts against Aston Villa, all of which came while playing for Burnley between 2019 and 2021. Away from home, he’s had a hand in 10 goals this season for Nottingham Forest (8 goals, 2 assists) with only Bryan Roy (6 goals, 5 assists in 1994-95) and Stan Collymore (9 goals, 4 assists in 1994-95) scoring and assisting more in a season.
