Eric Black was happy with his side’s attacking performance against Southampton, but was left unimpressed by Villa’s defensive performance.
Villa, who were behind after 15 minutes after Long headed home, were soon two behind after Tadic fired into an empty net. Both goals were the result of awful defending, from both Brad Guzan and Joleon Lescott.
However, Ashley Westwood’s goal before half-time gave Villa hope heading into the second half.
More defensive mistakes in the second-half allowed both Dusan Tadic and then Saido Mane to score, either side of Westwood’s second goal.
Speaking after the game to the BBC, Black said:
We created more chances. We had two or three chances, and if we’d taken them, we might have got something. But if we have to score five goals at home to win a game, then we’re going to be in for a tough challenge. We did get a response under difficult circumstances, but it wasn’t enough to win the game.
We conceded poor goals that put us on the back foot. There was a response, and credit for that, but on the day it wasn’t enough.
Black also spoke about the reaction of the fans to Villa’s 25th league defeat of the season, with the 74th-minute protest continuing against Southampton. Thousands of fans walked out of Villa Park in the 74th-minute, whilst those remaining inside the stadium held their ‘Proud History What Future?’ posters aloft.
Black said:
The fans are entitled to vent their displeasure. It’s not an ideal atmosphere, but it’s understandable, given the circumstances. We have to continue to be professional.
Villa’s stay in the top-flight is nearing its end, but they still have three games to play this season. Villa’s next game is against Watford next Saturday, with Villa’s final home game coming against Newcastle United in two weeks time.
