Ollie Watkins was left to reflect on a day of mixed emotions as he marked his 100th Aston Villa appearance with a goal in Sunday’s 3-1 defeat to Manchester City.
Watkins netted with a well-taken low strike in the second half to give an improved Villa side hope of a fightback.
But the damage had already been done before the break as Rodri, Ilkay Gundogan and Riyad Mahrez, with a penalty, netted for the Premier League champions to leave the visitors facing an uphill task.
It left Villa still without a Premier League win at the Etihad Stadium since 2007 as Unai Emery tasted his first Premier League defeat on the road.
“I think we were a bit soft in the first half,” Watkins told VillaTV.
“All round, not pointing fingers, me especially, letting Rodri come through for the second goal, too easily in midfield.
“We switched off early doors with the set-piece and then we found it hard to get back into the game against a world-class team.”
Reflecting on the second-half display, he added: “I thought we gave it a go.
“We came out and we were a lot more positive, on the front foot, and there was a little bit more fight about us.
“There were moments when we pushed forward and we created some chances.
“I think we were unlucky not to get a second goal, but it’s a fair result, really.”
“It’s unbelievable to play for a massive club like Villa, hopefully I’ve got many more (appearances) to come.”
Ollie Watkins
Watkins celebrated his Villa debut with a goal back in September 2020 and bagged his maiden hat-trick shortly afterwards in our memorable 7-2 triumph over Liverpool.
Just over two years later, his 100th appearance in claret and blue resulted in his seventh goal of the season and third in as many games.
It was Watkins’ 34th for the club, and the England international striker is keen to add to that tally between now and the end of the season.
“I’m just trying to find some form now, consistency, it’s nice to be back among the goals,” he said.
“I always believed in myself and I know I can score goals at this level.
“So, long may it continue. I’m looking forward to the last bunch of games and some more goals.
“It’s unbelievable to play for a massive club like Villa, hopefully I’ve got many more to come.”
