Watkins Shines as Aston Villa Beat Fulham in a Dramatic Clash

Ollie Watkins continued his strong start to the season, netting his fifth Premier League goal as Aston Villa secured a thrilling 3-1 victory over Fulham. This win marks Villa’s best start to a campaign after eight games since the 1998-99 season, placing them fourth in the table.

Fulham struck first when Raul Jimenez capitalized on a long ball from goalkeeper Bernd Leno. Jimenez outmuscled Pau Torres and fired a low shot into the corner. Villa responded quickly, leveling the score after a Morgan Rogers shot deflected off Fulham’s Calvin Bassey, catching Leno off guard.

Fulham had the chance to retake the lead from the penalty spot, but Emiliano Martinez saved Andreas Pereira’s weak effort. Villa took control in the second half, with Watkins heading home a Youri Tielemans corner. Fulham’s afternoon worsened after Joachim Andersen was sent off for fouling Watkins, followed by Issa Diop’s own goal from a Lucas Digne cross.

Despite Villa’s strong performance, the match ended on a sour note when substitute Jaden Philogene was sent off for a second yellow card in stoppage time.

The victory boosts Villa to fourth, while Fulham sit in ninth place.