And so to the game ...
Villa start brightly, putting Manchester City on the back foot and creating a half-chance for Anwar El Ghazi. But before long the pattern of play is established with City pressing forward relentlessly. Their opening goal comes from the boot of Sergio Aguero and a few minutes later Rodri doubles the score with a fine header.
Despite these setbacks Villa refuse to buckle. An equally fine header from new striker, Mbwana Samatta cuts the lead to one as the teams go in at half-time.
The second half sees constant pressure from City. Villa have little in the way of possession. On the rare occasions they do get the ball City's relentless harrying forces them either to go long or lose possession. Unbelievably, though, they do have one last opportunity to level the scores and take the game to extra-time. Bjorn Engels delivers an excellent header only to see it deflected onto the cross-bar by an even finer save by City's Claudio Bravo.
Villa fans remain resolute, cheering the team as the players fall to the ground when the final whistle blows. There's no disgrace here. We've held City to just two goals, scored a fine one ourselves through Samatta and out-sung their fans throughout the game.
Here's hoping we can continue in good form for the remainder of the season. Our survival in the Premiership depends on it.
