Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard made his coaching bow north of the border last season at Rangers. Winning the league there unbeaten persuaded Villa to part company with Dean Smith and take a chance on Stevie G, so far it looks like an inspired decision. Two wins out of two going into this one, which is against one of world soccer's most formidable teams in City. Have you ever wondered why coaches who have never been actually good on the field make the best coaches? It is because they do not always pay attention to the technical aspects of the whole game , only concentrate on perfecting their designated position. Gerrard in this match showed that he still has a lot to learn about the defensive organization of his team particularly when they lose the ball high up the pitch. Check out the Bernardo Silva wonder goal and how exposed they were, Mings caught out of position.
Bernardo Silva has been blazing this season. What you got to love about the City roving winger/number 10 is that he doesn't take unnecessary touches, isn't selfish and always looks for the pass if it is there. Ball control is superb too. What of Villa? Watkins was their best player by a mile, holding possession, leading the line allowing his teammates a chance to attack. His goal richly deserved , a training ground corner move, no doubt Gerrard had a say in that. Zimbabwean International Nakamba was awesome in the first half neutralizing Fernandinho although he inevitably runs out of steam in the second half. Just one sub for City, former Villa Park hero Grealish coming on to a rousing reception. Second half better for the home side, City as known haven't the best defense in the world. But Ederson saving well from Chukwuemeka was the save of the match. Gerrard losing for the first time in a league match in over a year as coach. I think Villa hierarchy will be realistic as to the club's position at the end of season so won't expect much this year. City up to second a point behind Chelsea.
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