VILLA SPOIL POTTER PARTY AS HAMMERS COLLAPSE
Graham Potter’s managerial debut at West Ham United ended in heartbreak as Aston Villa staged a dramatic late comeback to secure a 2-1 victory in the FA Cup third round at Villa Park.
West Ham appeared poised for a smooth transition under Potter, with Lucas Paquetá scoring a stunning opener just nine minutes into the game. Assisted by Crysencio Summerville, the Brazilian midfielder showcased revitalized form, driving his side forward as they controlled much of the first half. Villa, under Unai Emery, failed to muster a shot on target during the opening 45 minutes, as the Hammers’ defense looked unusually solid.
SECOND-HALF TURNAROUND
The match shifted drastically in the second half. Amadou Onana equalized in the 71st minute, capitalizing on a controversial corner that sparked debate. A chaotic goalmouth scramble ended with the midfielder tapping home to ignite Villa’s comeback.
Just five minutes later, Morgan Rogers completed the turnaround, finishing a lightning-quick counterattack initiated by Ollie Watkins. The forward’s pinpoint cross found Rogers in stride, and he calmly slotted home to send the Villa faithful into raptures. Youri Tielemans nearly added a third with a thunderous strike that rattled the woodwork, but the hosts held firm to book their place in the fourth round.
REACTIONS
Post-match, Rogers reflected on the contentious corner leading to Villa’s first goal but expressed his delight at the team’s resilience. “I don’t really remember it, but I’m glad it was a corner because we scored from it,” he said. “Why can’t we win [the FA Cup]? We take it game by game, but this competition means a lot, and we’ll do our best to go all the way.”
For Potter, the defeat highlighted the challenges ahead. West Ham, who had displayed newfound defensive discipline early on, crumbled under pressure in the final 20 minutes. “It was a tough end to the game,” Potter admitted. “We showed promise, but there’s work to be done.”
UP NEXT
The loss adds to a daunting period for West Ham, who face Premier League clashes against Fulham, Villa, Chelsea, and Arsenal in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, Villa will look to build on their momentum as they aim for silverware in the historic competition.
Full-Time: Aston Villa 2-1 West Ham United
Goals:
- West Ham: Paquetá (9′)
- Aston Villa: Onana (71′), Rogers (76′)
Villa march on, while Potter’s West Ham tenure starts with a bitter cup exit.
