---
title: "Di Matteo happy with Villa progress"
canonical: "https://readastonvilla.com/2016/08/20/di-matteo-happy-villa-progress/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Ed Payne"
section: "Aston Villa News"
published: "2016-08-20T20:26:04Z"
modified: "2016-08-20T20:26:04Z"
---

# Di Matteo happy with Villa progress

Roberto Di Matteo believes his side are continuing to make progress, after Villa picked up their first point away from home this season in a hard-fought clash with Derby County.

Villa headed into the game on the back of a win and draw against Rotherham and Huddersfield respectively and Di Matteo would have been keen to ensure his side continue their positive momentum after a difficult start to the season.

A bright start in the first half saw Ross McCormack and Gary Gardner both strike the woodwork, whilst Libor Kozak also made his first appearance of the season as a substitute after Rudy Gestede picked up an injury.

However, the second half saw the hosts begin to exert their own pressure, with Pierluigi Gollini forced to make a good save to keep Tom Ince’s effort out, whilst Ashely Westwood also cleared off the line.

Speaking after the game, Di Matteo [said](https://www.avfc.co.uk/News/2016/08/20/di-matteo-derby-verdict):

> Away from home, you get a draw and it’s always a good point, especially at Derby.
>
> I thought today we did everything that you need to do to deserve to win a game.
>
> But lady luck wasn’t on our side.

Di Matteo also spoke about the progress his side are making, after a poor start to his tenure as Villa manager.

> We always said we are a work in progress and looking to improve the basics and details that decide games.
>
> We looked very strong today. That’s three games unbeaten now. We are looking better.