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Follow us on Twitter @claretandview // Words by Regan Foy (@FindFoy)
On an extremely wet, and undoubtedly cold night in Colchester, Aston Villa have won their opening match of the Carabao Cup. Some players shone, some players looked uncomfortable, but the side overcame their issues and came out on top. Here are our player ratings for the game:
Jed Steer – 8
Jed looked comfortable in goal and would have had a clean sheet if it were not for the lucky, or instinctual attempt on goal by Kent. Great penalty save accompanied by some acrobatics. Will provide great competition for Johnstone in the season ahead provided he doesn’t get injured.
James Bree – 7
James Bree looked assured at right back, producing some great passes forward for Adomah in the first half, and looked strong in the tackle. Definitely one for the future.
James Chester – 7
Had a couple of issues throughout the game but took back the Captain’s armband gracefully. Controlled the makeshift defence well.
Chris Samba – 6
Looked incredibly uncomfortable for the first half and made a rash challenge that could have put Aston Villa in a very awkward position if it wasn’t for Jed’s penalty save. Became more confident as the game went on and made some good clearances.
Birkir Bjarnason – 6
Struggled initially with the position he was playing and made a few mistakes that could have changed the game significantly. In the second half he looked more comfortable and began to press forward, even more so when Bree moved to left-back to accommodate for De Laet’s appearance.
Conor Hourihane – 6
Made a few mistakes and looked sloppy in possession. Had a number of attempts at goal and hit what seemed to be Villa’s first free kick on target in a while.
Josh Onomah – 7
Looked to be far more confident than his age would suggest. Good at dribbling and caused issues for the Colchester defence, as well as winning a few free kicks for Villa. Can only get better.
Andre Green – 6
Was outshone by his youthful counterparts and seemed to struggle throughout his time on the pitch. Came very close to opening the scoring but it wasn’t to be. Worked well, but wasn’t a surprise when he was replaced.
Albert Adomah – 6
Struggled early on but became an outlet going forward. Paired well with Bree on the right hand side and produced some decent crosses into the Colchester box.
Callum O’Hare – 7
Had an absolutely wonderful game of football. His ability on the ball was second to none, and was a joy to watch. Produced good passes, got into good positions and didn’t seem to be phased by the game. Sprightly whilst on the ball and took the opportunity to make his mark with moves like THAT back heel.
Scott Hogan – 7
Scored his first goal of the season after Andre Green’s attempt on goal. Would have probably scored the second if it wasn’t turned into the net beforehand. Looked bereft of confidence at points and could have easily scored again if he took his chances more.
Rushian Hepburn-Murphy – 6
Was good to see the youngster return to the first team after a bad injury. Looked strong on the ball, produces some good touches and had a shot on goal. May have done more if given more time.
Keinan Davis – 6
Keinan proved that he’s a worthwhile addition, at least as a substitute, with his towering figure and strength. Could have done more if he was hoping to impress.
Ritchie De Laet – 6
Only had 11 minutes on the pitch, and didn’t do much other than get fouled, but it was wonderful to see him getting some game time after being out for the whole of last season. Provides even more cover at right back.
