Unai Emery hailed his “fantastic” goalkeeper and defence as Aston Villa ran out 1-0 winners in a closely fought contest against Brentford in the Premier League.

Ollie Watkins scored against his former team shortly after half-time to secure Villa’s victory at the Gtech Community Stadium and only their second league win in the last eight matches.

Morgan Rogers saw a goal chalked off for offside as Emery’s team – who were without first-choice goalkeeper Emi Martinez – defended resolutely to see out the tie and pick up an important three points.

Three points earned ???? #BREAVL pic.twitter.com/HZlmrOU1Dp

— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) March 8, 2025

Robin Olsen came in to replace Martinez and his performance, as well as that of the back four in front of him, was singled out for praise from Emery.

“We did a fantastic job. The first half we dominated, we created chances, we played wishing to win,” said the Villa boss.

“In the second-half they were pushing us to defend in a low block, and we needed the goalkeeper. Fantastic job he did. And the back four as well, they did a fantastic job.”

Emery also highlighted the importance of building momentum going into the second-leg of their Champions League Round of 16 tie against Club Brugge with Villa leading 3-1.

After that, Emery’s side do not play in the league until April and the Spaniard insisted the win was good for morale.

“I am very proud of the players,” Emery said. “We planned this match as key because we are not going to play in the Premier League for 25 days, more or less.

“To try and feel more comfortable, confident, to believe in our way, it was very important to compete today and try to get those three points.”