Watkins Ends Drought as Aston Villa Beat Fulham for First League Win

Ollie Watkins finally ended his goal drought as Aston Villa came from behind to secure their first Premier League win of the season, beating Fulham 3-1 at Villa Park.

The England striker had failed to score in nine straight games — his joint-worst run in claret and blue — but his equaliser helped spark Villa’s turnaround after Raul Jimenez had given the visitors a third-minute lead.

Villa’s Second-Half Surge

Villa looked flat for much of the first half but rallied after the break. John McGinn fired home before substitute Emi Buendía, scoring his first goal in a year, struck within two minutes to put the game beyond Fulham.

Ezri Konsa later produced a crucial clearance off the line from Sasa Lukic to preserve Villa’s advantage as Unai Emery’s men saw out a much-needed victory.

A Win to Ease the Pressure

Villa had endured a worrying run of five league games without a win, and although Emery’s job was never in danger, concerns were growing about their performances. This result, combined with Thursday’s narrow Europa League triumph over Bologna, may now provide the springboard Villa need heading into a crucial run of fixtures.

Watkins’ return to scoring form was also significant for a side heavily reliant on his goals after he netted 16 in the league last season.

Fulham Left Frustrated

Marco Silva’s side started brightly and were aggrieved by two key refereeing decisions — Josh King booked for simulation after Emi Martinez rushed out, and Matty Cash escaping punishment for a handball.

But their collapse after half-time proved costly. Failing to deal with Lucas Digne’s long ball for Watkins’ leveller set the tone, and Villa capitalised ruthlessly.

What’s Next?

• Aston Villa face Feyenoord in the Europa League on Thursday before hosting Burnley on Sunday.
• Fulham visit Bournemouth on Friday and host Arsenal after the international break.

Player of the Match

John McGinn (Aston Villa) — 8.14 average rating.