Ryan Sessegnon’s first-half rebound gave Fulham a 1-0 win over Aston Villa, boosting their European hopes while leaving Villa still needing points to confirm Champions League qualification.
Ryan Sessegnon scored the only goal as Fulham beat Aston Villa 1-0 at Craven Cottage on Saturday, ending a run of just one win in six games. The left-back, who signed a contract extension this week, swept in a rebound after Emi Martinez saved Sasa Lukic’s header in the 43rd minute. The result lifts Fulham to 10th, two points behind sixth-placed Brighton.
Villa’s champions league path stays uncertain after cottage setback
Aston Villa’s hopes of sealing a top-five finish before their Europa League campaign resumes were frustrated by a lacklustre display. Ollie Watkins and Morgan Rogers wasted chances, and substitute Tammy Abraham also failed to find the net. With England head coach Thomas Tuchel watching, Emery’s side were hampered by the absence of injured midfielder Amadou Onana as they struggled to break down Fulham’s defensive shape.
Silva’s side hold firm despite castagne goal being ruled out
Fulham captain Joachim Andersen was outstanding, leading a backline that kept Villa largely at bay. A Timothy Castagne header was controversially disallowed for a foul on Martinez, drawing fury from manager Marco Silva. The victory is tempered by concern over Sessegnon, who limped off injured in the second half despite his new deal running until the end of next season.