Matty Cash had last found the net in Premier League action in May 2022
Matty Cash was the man of the hour, bagging two goals for Aston Villa as they dismantled a struggling Burnley side still in search of their first Premier League points this season.
Aston Villa bounced back impressively from an initial 5-1 thrashing at the hands of Newcastle, stringing together a hat-trick of wins across all competitions.
Cash, the usually reserved full-back, turned out to be the surprise star at Turf Moor, scoring a pair of exceptional goals and offering a tantalizing preview of what Unai Emery’s squad is capable of this season.
Within a brisk seven minutes, Aston Villa sliced through Burnley’s defense as Ollie Watkins set up Cash for a smooth finish at the back post.
Cash’s second goal was the result of excellent team chemistry, a volley set up by Moussa Diaby, the summer acquisition who continues to impress in his new colors.
Burnley tried to mount a comeback right after halftime with Lyle Foster netting his inaugural Premier League goal, but Aston Villa quickly reasserted their dominance. Diaby capped off the win with a slick counter-attack goal, making sure the three points were going back to Villa Park.
Moussa Diaby: A Rising Star
After an embarrassing opening loss to Newcastle, Aston Villa has quickly course-corrected. Emery’s squad has gone on a rampage, racking up three straight wins, amassing 12 goals and conceding just a single one.
“Winning here is no easy feat. We were laser-focused, particularly keen on avoiding a repeat of the Newcastle disaster,” said Emery. “These three points are pivotal for us.”
Matty Cash may have grabbed the headlines, but it was Moussa Diaby who stole the show. The French winger, a record signing from Bayer Leverkusen, was a persistent menace in the final third, scoring one and assisting another.
Burnley’s Learning Curve
After their triumphant Championship run last season, Burnley has found the Premier League to be a less forgiving landscape. Vincent Kompany’s side has now suffered back-to-back losses in a trend that is becoming uncomfortably familiar.
“Quality costs in the Premier League. Aston Villa capitalized on their chances, and that’s a credit to them,” said Kompany. “We have to learn from this if we hope to stay in the top tier.”
Burnley’s defensive issues were apparent, and their attack was largely inefficient. Despite showing moments of promise, like debutant Hannes Delcroix forcing a save from Villa’s substitute goalkeeper Robin Olsen, Burnley was mostly outclassed.
Player Ratings
Matty Cash Earns a Solid 8.27 Average Rating
Burnley Player Ratings
- A Ramsey: 5.62
- Gudmundsson: 5.55
- Foster: 5.34
- Trafford: 5.14
- Roberts: 5.07
Aston Villa Player Ratings
- (Data unavailable for Aston Villa Player Ratings)
Match Statistics
Possession
- Burnley: 57%
- Aston Villa: 43%
Shots
- Burnley: 9
- Aston Villa: 16
Shots on Target
- Burnley: 2
- Aston Villa: 6
Corners
- Burnley: 4
- Aston Villa: 6
Fouls
- Burnley: 12
- Aston Villa: 11
So, what’s your take on Burnley’s performance? Share your thoughts!
And how about that display from Aston Villa? We’re all ears!
Oh, and let’s not forget, sports fans—this is the Premier League, where every weekend could either break your heart or make you believe in miracles. Stay tuned for more drama, more goals, and more eyebrow-raising moments.
