The type of performance from Aston Villa was exactly what was needed against AS Roma. Through the opening portion of the preseason, Villa supporters have not exactly been shy about how the U.S. tour fixtures have unfolded, voicing their overall displeasure.
Now back in England, playing at Poundland Bescot Stadium, Unai Emery's men marched to a 4-0 victory over the Serie A side.
Particularly in the first half, it was the kind of performance that exudes confidence that Villa are on the brink of finding their form in time for the opening Premier League match against Newcastle United.
Between watching how the newer introductions for this season are doing and how the more senior players are playing, Unai Emery appears to have found the right balance for this preseason.
Once again, Ollie Watkins and Donyell Malen found the back of the net. Also adding themselves to the score sheet, Jacob Ramsey and Emiliano Buendía contributed to the overall tally. This game showed more balance in the attack overall compared to some of the other matches. Seeing Villa able to pose a threat in the final third in this way makes it so that fans will be that much more excited to see what the attack looks like once the EPL campaign begins.
Aston Villa looking good early on
With only a few more friendly fixtures remaining, Villa will hope to be able to capture many of the aspects that were seen last night, carrying the momentum into the season ahead. It is only a preseason fixture. Still, keeping a clean sheet and putting four past the opposing keeper is obviously a great day's work. Villa are starting to play like a side that is ready to challenge for a Champions League spot.
Looking further ahead, Roma are a team that is also going to be in Europa League and could pose a threat for the European trophy. Villa looking this good against a quality opponent is highly encouraging.