Aston Villa entertained Sunderland at Villa Park earlier today as they hoped to secure a win at home in the Premier League. The Villans made a dream start to the game as they scored the opener in the second-minute when Ollie Watkins got his name on the scoresheet. However, Chris Rigg equalised for the visitors in the ninth minute. Watkins restored his team’s lead in the 36th minute as Unai Emery’s men went into the half-time break 2-1 up on the scoreline.
Morgan Rogers scored the home side’s third goal in the 47th minute. However, Sunderland found a way back into the game thanks to Trai Hume’s effort in the 86th minute. Wilson Isidor equalised for the Black Cats just a minute later. However, Tammy Abraham scored the winning goal for the Villans in injury time. Aston Villa ended up securing a hard-fought 4-3 win in front of their home fans.
Let’s take a look at how each Aston Villa player fared during the clash against the Black Cats.
He made a few solid saves at the back but conceded three goals this afternoon.
Cash was far from convincing when defending inside his half and lacked quality going forward.
He cleared his lines when needed, but did enough work defensively to secure the win.
Mings gave a good account of himself on the defensive end of the field and was a strong presence in the air.
BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND – APRIL 19: John McGinn of Aston Villa celebrates victory in the Premier League match between Aston Villa and Sunderland at Villa Park on April 19, 2026 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
He was a positive influence at both ends of the pitch and did well to secure an assist.
Onana put in another tireless shift at the centre of the park.
He anchored the midfield with conviction and was tidy with his ball distribution.
McGinn caused a lot of headaches for his marker and ended the game with an assist to his name.
He managed to shine at times, but there was no goal for him.
Rogers was a real threat on the left wing and managed to score early in the second half.
He created a lot of chaos in and around the Sunderland penalty area and scored a brace to help his team secure the win today.