There weren't too many more difficult outcomes that could have taken place in the event if Aston Villa had failed to secure the win against Bologna for the first match of Europa League. As could be seen at Villa Park, tensions are at an all-time high among the fan base.
The lack of anything positive transpiring in the Premier League essentially made this a must-win match. This is where John McGinn stepped up and ensured that anything resembling momentum could be found from the Thursday fixture.
Around the 13th minute, Villa worked a set piece situation from the corner in which the ball bobbled in the area. McGinn took the opportunity as the ball found him and laced up a well-stricken left-footed shot past Lukasz Skorupski.
This was not only important by the nature of Villa eking out a 1-0 victory, but it also speaks to the general nature in which the club has struggled to mount anything dangerous or consistent in the attack.
There has been a lot of discussion about what specifically is needed in order for Villa to rejuvenate what has been a dismal start to the campaign. The bottom line is players who are now a part of the roster have to take it upon themselves to accept the responsibility of flipping fortunes.
It is known what role McGinn plays even when he is not wearing the captain's armband. To see him be the one to find the much-needed breakthrough amidst all of the turmoil that is going on is most fitting.
Landscape of Aston Villa
Overall there were some positive performances. By the same token, many of the same issues persist. It remains to be seen. if Villa can build anything lasting into the Premier League from the Bologna match.
Chances are if it is going to be anyone to spark a renewed form, Villa will once again have to turn to McGinn.