Analysis: Disappointing Leeds draw may yet prove a defining moment in Aston Villa's season
This felt like the day Villa’s sights switched decisively from chasing those above them in the Premier League table to simply staying ahead of those below.
“Thank f*** for Burnley,” was the blunt assessment of one senior player following a few minutes in the season which may well prove significant come the end of May.
At quarter to five on Saturday, Villa’s advantage over Chelsea in the battle for Champions League football appeared likely to be trimmed to just three points as they trailed and toiled at home to Leeds United.
Then Tammy Abraham flicked home via his right knee to earn a draw before, 100 or so miles south, Zian Flemming headed a stoppage time equaliser for the aforementioned Burnley at Stamford Bridge to keep Villa’s lead over the west London club at six.
Villa next go to bottom-of-the-table Wolves, while Chelsea travel to leaders Arsenal, before the two sides meet in Birmingham on Wednesday week.
In simple terms, if Unai Emery’s team win both of their next two matches, they would likely have a close to unassailable lead over one of their chasers, in the scramble for a top-five finish which will surely be enough for a place in Europe’s elite club competition next season.
That, at least, is the optimist’s outlook.
The reality is any win currently feels far from straightforward, regardless of opponent, for Villa.
Emery’s men have won just three of their last eight Premier League matches, with their unlikely title challenge having fizzled out in the one place you would never have expected.
