In an intense Premier League clash, Nicolo Zaniolo’s dramatic stoppage-time goal in the seventh minute helped Aston Villa secure a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Sheffield United. This result extended Villa’s unbeaten streak to 10 matches across all competitions – but it was also a massive disappointment.Unai Emery’s high-flying Villans had a seemingly easy task of beating one of the Premier League’s worst teams, but a lack of an attacking edge really cost the Birmingham team tonight. Instead, Chris Wilder could have gotten an unexpected win on his return to Sheffield United – if only there weren’t for Zaniolo’s late impact.CAMERON ARCHER SCORES!!!! pic.twitter.com/hHzreIXujS— Live Sport (@AllGoalsLive_) December 22, 2023 Villa, aiming for the top spot, initially struggled to penetrate Sheffield United’s new defensive setup. Despite their persistence, with early shots from Moussa Diaby and attempts from set pieces by Ezri Konsa and Ollie Watkins, the breakthrough remained elusive.Sheffield United, languishing at the bottom of the league table, managed to contain Emery’s attacking side and occasionally threatened through counterattacks led by Cameron Archer, a former Villa player. The first half saw few clear-cut opportunities, setting the stage for a tactical battle.Zaniolo sonunda açıldı pic.twitter.com/4OkleSkxQG— no context gala (@galaconttext) December 22, 2023 Villa began the second half in dominant fashion, dictating play with over 95% possession in the initial 10 minutes. Although they had a goal disallowed due to a foul, frustrations mounted as the visitors began posing their own threats. Oliver Norwood and a nearly own-goal by Konsa tested Villa’s defence, culminating in Gustavo Hamer’s clever assist to Archer, who netted confidently against his former club.The match saw a prolonged period of added time, offering Villa a glimmer of hope. Substitute Zaniolo’s header from Douglas Luiz’s delivery salvaged a point for Villa in the dying moments. While Sheffield United narrowly missed their first away win, Villa also missed the opportunity to top the table at Christmas for the first time in 25 years. Nonetheless, Villa remains optimistic about their season, while Sheffield United’s resilient defensive display offers encouragement for their future performances.PREMIER LEAGUE – MATCHDAY 18Friday Aston Villa – Sheffield United 1-1 (0-0)/Zaniolo 90+7 – Archer 87/Saturday 15.30: (2.65) West Ham (3.40) Man.Utd. (2.80)18.00: (1.68) Fulham (3.70) Burnley (5.40)18.00: (1.85) Tottenham (3.80) Everton (4.50)18.00: (2.90) Nott.Forest (3.45) Bournemouth (2.55)18.00: (5.90) Luton (3.90) Newcastle (1.67)20.30: (2.45) Liverpool (3.50) Arsenal (3.00)Sunday 16.00: (4.00) Wolverhampton (3.60) Chelsea (2.00)***odds are subject to change
