Aston Villa were held to a disappointing 1-1 draw against Sheffield United on Friday night but there was one positive to come from the game as Nicolo Zaniolo scored his first Premier League goal.
Aston Villa arrived into the contest against the league’s bottom side knowing that a victory would have sent them top of the table but Unai Emery’s troops let that opportunity slip away from them.
Despite dominating the majority of the contest as Sheffield United failed to register a single shot on goal in the first half, it was the visitors who found themselves in the lead late on.
Former Villa man Cameron Archer played up to the script by scoring against his former club and the 22-year-old thought he would have earned his side a priceless three points.
However, Douglas Luiz produced a moment of quality in the 97th minute as his floating cross was glanced into the back of the net by Nicolo Zaniolo.
It was the Italian’s first Premier League goal that saved the Villans and ensured they extended their unbeaten run at Villa Park to 16 matches.
Zaniolo has struggled since arriving on loan from Galatasaray in the summer but this moment of jubilation could inspire him to become a success in claret and blue.
What did Nicolo Zaniolo say after scoring his first Premier League goal?
Despite finally breaking his Villa duck in the top flight, Zaniolo felt he couldn’t enjoy the moment as his side didn’t come away with all three points.
Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, he said: “I’m happy with my first goal in the Premier League, but I prefer three points. When I come on the pitch, the team needed a goal. After I scored, it was a little bit better.”
When the campaign draws to a close in May, Zaniolo’s goal could prove to be the difference between Villa qualifying for the Champions League or winning the title.
Zaniolo given much needed confidence boost
During his Villa career so far, the Italian has suffered from a lack of confidence and has only shown glimpses of his capabilities.
With so much competition for places in the attacking third from the likes of Leon Bailey, Moussa Diaby and Ollie Watkins, Zaniolo has been on the periphery of the action.
After scoring his first goal, however, a huge weight would have been lifted from his shoulders and he can be delighted with the impact he’s made.
He now has to use that critical moment as fuel to contribute more goals and assists over the Christmas period as Villa look to stay within touching distance of their Premier League title rivals.
