Aston Villa survive late scare to edge Sunderland in seven-goal thriller

Although securing a 7-1 aggregate victory against Bologna during the week boosted their chances of reaching the UCL via the UEFA Europa League (UEL), Aston Villa aimed to strengthen their position in the top five of the league, managing to take an early lead just under two minutes in.

John McGinn chased down a pass from Matty Cash and delivered a precise cross from the touchline to the far post, where Ollie Watkins headed it home from close range.

However, Sunderland's bid for European spots remained alive, and they equalised within 10 minutes as Noah Sadiki set up Chris Rigg, who struck a superb left-footed shot past Emiliano Martínez.

The 18-year-olds debut Premier League goal also marked him as Sunderlands third youngest scorer in the competitions history, yet it barely shifted the games flow.

The home side soon rattled the crossbar via Amadou Onana, followed by a period of slower tempo that allowed Villa to regain control.

This goal mirrored their opener, but with Ian Maatsens delivery from the left flank carrying more pace, enabling Watkins to steer it into the unguarded goal.

Sunderlands determined finish to the opening period hinted at a potential equaliser, but instead Villa carried that momentum forward, scoring shortly after the restart.

McGinn won the ball back and sparked a smooth sequence of passes, culminating in Watkins feeding Morgan Rogers, who coolly placed his effort into the bottom far corner for the England players goal.

From that point, Villa sought to build on their advantage with several quick breaks, but they were caught off guard by a sudden surge from Sunderland late on.

Trai Hume reduced the deficit by dispossessing Jadon Sancho, surging forward, and rifling a shot into the top far corner from an acute angle.

Almost immediately after, Enzo Le Fees pass launched Wilson Isidor on a run, and the Haitian capitalised on Martínezs stumble to slot it near post and ignite the visiting supporters.

Yet the home team had the last say in this dramatic clash, as substitute Lucas Dignes curling cross was deftly guided in by fellow replacement Tammy Abraham past Robin Roefs.

Even without points from this match, Sunderland stay only two points shy of sixth position, whereas Aston Villa now enjoy some leeway to direct attention towards the rest of their UEL journey.