Unai Emery hailed a “fantastic” three points for Aston Villa as they defeated Leeds United 2-1 at Villa Park.
Leon Bailey handed Villa the perfect start as he registered his fourth Premier League goal of the season with only three minutes on the clock.
Villa were indebted to new signing Álex Moreno for clearing off the line and captain Emi Martínez as he pulled off a save of the season contender, before Emi Buendía added a second after the hour mark to double the hosts' advantage.
Patrick Bamford set up a nervy finale, but it was Villa who triumphed thanks to a strong team performance as head coach Emery made it 13 points from 18 since taking charge.
“We showed very good character,” Emery told VillaTV post-match.
“It was very important with our supporters here in Villa Park, to try to connect with our supporters.
“This character but, as well, good skills, good positioning and a good way to win.
“I think in the first half we needed our goalkeeper, we needed to be defensively strong.
“But in the second half I think we reacted very well - keeping ball possession more, longer and, really, getting balls better than the first half.
“We had very good options, very good chances to score, we got the second goal, we created more chances to score.
“But at the end they were pushing, trying to keep the option in the match and they scored one goal, but it wasn’t enough for them.
“We are so, so happy.”
You can watch Unai’s full interview below…