Aston Villa’s impressive winning run continued yesterday, as a Jonathan Kodjia brace proved to be the difference in a 2-0 victory over Norwich City FC.
The Ivorian international finished a fine solo effort in the 26th minute by rifling his shot into the roof of the Norwich net, before making sure of the three points minutes from time.
Villa’s win means they have now been triumphant in 6 of their last 7 league games and are now up to 11th in the table, 10 points outside of the play-offs.
In a cagey first half, both teams had early chances to break the deadlock. Canaries striker Cameron Jerome really should have done better when he skewed a shot wide from inside the Villa box.
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The home team took the lead when Scott Hogan threaded a precise ball through to Kodjia, who made short work of the Norwich defense. The energetic striker cut inside onto his left before guiding the ball home.
Hogan almost immediately doubled Villa’s lead when he too fired a fierce shot towards goal. Northern Ireland international Michael McGovern outstretched a palm save.
However, despite a promising showing from Villa’s new dynamic duo, former Brentford man Hogan limped off down the tunnel just before the break in what is hoped to be only a minor injury.
The second half saw Norwich pressing high into Villa territory. For long periods, it was the claret and blues who had the better chances. Nathan Baker was denied by a block on the line before Conor Hourihane bounced his looping header off the top of the crossbar.
To make matters worse for the visitors, they were reduced to ten men on eighty minutes when right back Ivo Pinto was shown a second yellow for an untidy challenge on substitute Jordan Amavi. Canaries sub Nelson Oliviera could have drawn the scores level when clean through, but a last ditch slide from Neil Taylor superbly foiled his endeavors.
Villa pressed on and sealed the win soon afterwards; a long punt up-field from Sam Johnstone caused havoc in the Norwich defense, allowing Kodjia to finish first time into the back of the net.
Next: Aston Villa v. Norwich City PLAYER GRADES
Regardless of whether Villa make the playoffs or not, this kind of form is very encouraging. A strong finish will put the team in good stead for a promotion push next year provided the summer transfer window is used effectively.
For now however, the Villa faithful can enjoy something they have been waiting many a season for – consistent winning.