Aston Villa commenced their pre-season with a resounding 3-0 victory over Walsall, with Morgan Rogers shining as the star of the match by scoring two goals to secure a comfortable win for the team.
The 21-year-old Rogers opened the scoring just before the midway point of the first half, thanks to an astute assist from new signing Ross Barkley. Rogers then went on to double the lead after Walsall failed to clear Barkley’s corner, with Louie Barry adding a late third for Villa.
Despite Walsall’s relentless efforts in front of an 8,200-strong crowd at Bescot, they failed to trouble Villa’s goalkeepers, Robin Olsen and Joe Gauci, who each played a half.
Walsall’s hopes were further dashed by midfielder Brandon Comley’s untimely exit due to an injury in the first half, shortly after Villa had taken the lead. Both teams made significant changes at half-time, with Walsall’s second-half team featuring four trialists, including former Villa winger Albert Adomah and ex-Sutton striker Deon Moore.
Villa’s squad for both halves included a mix of first-team players, new signings, and fringe players. Notable inclusions were 17-year-old Jamaldeen Jimoh-Aloba and Cameron Archer, who recently returned from Sheffield United. However, Jacob Ramsey and Moussa Diaby were notably absent, with ongoing transfer talks.
Emi Buendia, who recently returned to training after a knee injury, watched from the stands. Of the four new signings in the squad, Barkley was the only one to start, and his quick thinking led to Villa’s first goal.
While Walsall had their moments, with Liam Gordon’s disallowed goal and Olsen’s error from a corner, Villa’s composure in front of goal proved decisive. Despite both teams making changes at half-time, it was Villa’s new goalkeeper, Gauci, who kept Walsall at bay with crucial saves.
In the closing moments of the match, Louie Barry secured the victory for Villa by scoring their third goal.
Walsall’s squad in both halves featured a blend of regular players and trialists, with Adomah receiving a warm reception from the visiting supporters. Meanwhile, Villa’s new goalkeeper, Gauci, impressed with several crucial saves, while their new signing, Leon Bailey, also made notable contributions.
Overall, Aston Villa’s win over Walsall marked a strong start to their pre-season and showcased the depth and talent in their squad.
Fans of the team can undoubtedly anticipate an exciting season ahead.