Liverpool maintained their unbeaten away record under manager Arne Slot in a pulsating 2-2 draw against Aston Villa at Villa Park. This result extended Slot's unprecedented start to 13 games without a loss on the road, a feat unmatched in Premier League history. The clash, marked by goals and drama, saw both teams create numerous opportunities but ultimately end the day sharing the spoils.
Aston Villa, managed by Unai Emery, aimed to improve their challenging record against Liverpool. Over the last 14 Premier League encounters, Villa has only secured a single victory, a memorable 7-2 triumph in October 2020. Yet, the Birmingham side entered the match with high hopes, buoyed by their home support and determined to disrupt Liverpool's impressive away form.
The game did not disappoint in terms of entertainment. Villa Park has a history of producing goal-laden affairs between these two sides; the last seven Premier League meetings at this venue have averaged 4.7 goals per game. True to form, this encounter delivered a spectacle for the fans, with both teams finding the back of the net twice.
Unai Emery expressed satisfaction with the result when speaking to BBC Match of the Day.
"I think it is fair, the result for both teams." – Unai Emery
The pressure remains on Liverpool as they vie for Premier League glory. Their position in the league table is crucial, yet the burden of expectation looms large.
"The pressure is always on you if you are Liverpool." – Unai Emery
Liverpool's unbeaten away run under Slot surpasses the previous record set by John Gregory with Aston Villa over two decades ago. This remarkable achievement places Slot among elite company, as only five teams in English top-flight history have avoided defeat in their first 14+ away matches of a campaign. Notable teams that have achieved similar feats include Leeds United (1973-74), Liverpool (1987-88), Arsenal (2001-02 and 2003-04), and Manchester United (2020-21).
The match also highlighted individual brilliance. A standout player came close to joining an exclusive club of Premier League talents with more than 15 goals and assists in a season, alongside legends such as Eric Cantona, Matt le Tissier, Thierry Henry, and Eden Hazard. Additionally, this player is on the cusp of becoming only the third in Premier League history to assist 10+ goals in away games within a single season.
Virgil van Dijk emphasized the team's focus and determination for the remainder of the season.
"Any team we play, we want to win the game and we will focus on ourselves and see where we are come the end of the season." – Virgil van Dijk
Aston Villa's Marcus Rashford, who has previously found success against Liverpool while at Manchester United, added another layer of intrigue to the match. His impressive record of five goals in eight home appearances against Liverpool highlights his threat in these encounters.
Despite their efforts, Aston Villa manager Unai Emery acknowledged the challenges faced against a formidable opponent like Liverpool.
"We played Wolves away and beat them 2-1 and in the final minutes, it was tough for us as well. These players are used to this and are used to playing for trophies. Today we played very well but that also has to do with the style of play of the other team." – Unai Emery
Ollie Watkins praised his team's resilience and ability to compete at a high level.
"It was a tough game. They are at the top of the league for a reason. We have a strong record here and always make it hard for teams. Even though we went behind we reacted well and could have nicked it at the end." – Ollie Watkins
Arne Slot expressed mixed feelings about the result, acknowledging his team's chances yet lamenting missed opportunities.
"Not so happy, to be honest. We created far more chances than them and created chances to win. But we also conceded from a set piece. If you are 1-0 down it is far from easy. Their second chance was a goal, was a cross, but they may have won it in the final moments but when you put all the chances together, I am not happy with the 2-2." – Arne Slot
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