Villa were hit by injury to Mark Bosnich, and suspensions to Ian Taylor and Andy Thompson as well as Steve Watson and Paul Merson being cup-tied and illegible.

The game started with Celta Viga going for the game,  but Villa took total control. Within 15 minutes they had scored when a break orchestrated by Stan Collymore found the Villa player in acres of space.  He waited till the defender had committed himself before rolling it into the path of Joachim for him to finish the job and put it in the back of the net.

From that point Celta Viga had almost all the possession,  however Villa did not crumble.  Frequent breaks caught the Celta Viga defense out a few times, and superb defending at the back kept Viga out.  

Michael Oakes didn't have a save to make until the 22nd minute,  and even then it was a simple catch.  He was called on to make some excellent saves late on and further laid claim to his place.

Gary Charles got forward a lot with some decent crosses and good tackling,  Gareth Southgate reading the game his brilliant self.  Gareth Barry and Uhgo Ehiogu were there every time Celta came on the offense,   always getting the vital foot and tackle in to limit chances.  The very few chances that did get past the dynamic duo were met by Southgate who was always in the right place at the right time.  

Lee Hendry didn't stop running for 90 minutes,  and with his work rate and skill it can't be long before Hoddle looks at him for the full squad.

Stan Collymore,  a born again striker it seems,  had another great game.  He looks set to prove he was worth every penny of the 7 million he cost Villa.

Joachim's pace had the Celta Viga defense running scared,  and he will be very unlucky if he finds himself back on the bench come next week.

Manager John Gregory has said frequently that attackers win matches,  defenders win championships.  This looks set to include the UEFA cup as well as the league.

Despite Celta Viga having all the play,  they could not break down the Villa defense which has conceded only two league goals all season.

European clubs beware: underestimate Villa again at your peril!