Ollie Watkins hailed a “massive” first-leg win in the Quarter-Finals of the UEFA Europa League, after his brace sealed Aston Villa’s 3-1 victory over Bologna.
Watkins put Unai Emery’s men 2-0 up at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara six minutes into the second half, before tying up the 3-1 success in stoppage time after Jonathan Rowe had notched for the hosts.
And, after soaking up a lot of pressure from the home side in the opening period, the 30-year-old discussed the importance of the timing of the goals, which secured Villa’s first-ever win on Italian soil.
Ollie Watkins
“It was massive,” the striker said.
“First half, they were putting us under a lot of pressure, and they were dominating the game.
“I think we got lucky. At half-time, I said to the boys: ‘Come on, lads, we need to wake up.’
“We got lucky, they had a disallowed goal, and if that turned and it stayed 1-0, it would have been a long way back for us, because here, great atmosphere as you can see, and they were playing tough today.
“We got the goal from the set-piece, and I think that took the sting out of the game. They were dominating just before half-time, great time to score, and then we’ve come out, obviously got the second goal, and from there, we looked like we were always going to go on and score more.”
Ollie Watkins
With four goals in his last five games, Watkins discussed his personal form and determination as the season reaches its conclusion.
After netting his 98th and 99th goals in claret and blue against I Rossoblù, the England frontman looked ahead to the second leg, and how crucial he believes Villa’s third goal could prove.
He added: “Back end of the season, I’m raring to go. I could play another 90 minutes right now.
“I’m excited for the last few games, obviously next week as well, against these. I’m hungry.
“I think their winger (Rowe) was causing all sorts of problems tonight. Great finish, 2-1, it’s all to play for.
“So that goal at the end, I think it takes the sting out of the game, and a two-goal lead going back.”
Ollie Watkins