Aston Villa claim silverware in Germany

Aston Villa claimed silverware in Germany as this year’s champions in the Cup of Traditions. The annual football tournament held in Duisburg, Germany came with its own, oversized trophy.

In a 2-0 victory over Bundesliga side Hertha Berlin, Aston Villa captured the Cup of Traditions. Goals by Chris Samba and Gabby Agbonlahor sealed the win in another pre-season tune-up.

Samba’s opener came early through a corner kick; the center back connected from a Jack Grealish delivery to give Villa a 1-0 lead. Gabby followed suit later in the half after rounding the Berlin ‘keeper (the matches were 45 minutes long).

In all, only Jed Steer played the full ninety minutes spread out across both matches. It was good to see Steer make his return, especially. The English goalkeeper came back following last season’s achilles tear. Right now, it’s unclear where he may go. Mark Bunn is thought to be second-choice goalkeeper behind incumbent Sam Johnstone.

However, Steer is far younger and arguably more talented than the veteran Bunn.

Jed Steer could go out on loan, though, the location, and league, is yet unknown. Manager Steve Bruce could also elect to use Steer as second-choice in cup competitions with Bunn in reserve.

Anyhow, yes, Aston Villa collected a nice piece of silverware in Germany on Sunday.

En route to the finals, Aston Villa defeated an MSV Duisburg side in the semis. Scott Hogan collected a brace with Andre Green picking up a goal in a 3-0 rout.

Only a handful of fixtures remain before Villa’s Championship home opener against Hull City. The countdown to August 5th continues!