Brentford 0 Aston Villa 1: Player ratings

Robin Olsen

There were a couple of nervy moments in the second half but also several important - and clean - claims. Seemed to visibly grow in confidence as the match went on.

Confident 7

Axel Disasi

Not bad for a defender who supposedly can't play at right-back. Maybe got a bit fortunate with the first penalty claim but he kept Schade well shackled.

Dominant 8

Ezri Konsa

Another strong performance from Konsa, who was consistently in the right place at the right time, particularly in the second half.

Composed 7

Tyrone Mings

Followed up his man of the match performance in Brugge with another strong performance. His strength in the air makes a huge difference to Villa.

Headers 7

Lucas Digne

So dominant Bryan Mbuemo's face will likely be appearing on a milk carton. Such a dependable presence at left-back who is rarely beaten.

Rock 7

John McGinn

Had some nice moments in the first half and was involved in starting the move which led to the goal. Replaced by Kamara on the hour mark.

Steady 6

Youri Tielemans

Dictated the tempo of the match in the first half and tested Mark Flekken with a low drive. Not so dominant in the second half but used the ball well.

Classy 7

Leon Bailey

Didn't do a huge amount wrong in the first half but neither did he do much with the opportunities he had. Replaced at the break by Cash.

Subdued 5

Morgan Rogers

Denied a goal by a marginal VAR call for the second straight match in London. Did some things very well, others less so.

Mixed 6

Jacob Ramsey

Found Watkins in the build-up to the goal and was then involved in the second, disallowed effort. Villa missed his energy after he was replaced in the second half.

Busy 7

Ollie Watkins

Continues to be a thorn in the side of his former club. Has scored prettier goals for Villa but in the context of the season this was a very important one.

Goal 7

Substitutes

Matty Cash 6 (for Bailey, HT), Boubacar Kamara 6 (for McGinn, 61), Marcus Rashford 5 (for Ramsey, 67), Donyell Malen (for Rogers, 90+4) Subs not used: Torres, Garcia, Bogarde, Maatsen, Zych (gk).