Last time it was a glitch in goalline technology that vexed Sheffield United at Villa Park, this time Chris Wilder’s men were frustrated by an early red card for John Egan and a moment of class from the home team’s new goalkeeper. Emiliano Martínez marked his first appearance for Aston Villa since a £20m move from
Arsenal by saving John Lundstram’s first-half penalty. Ezri Konsa crowned an ideal start to the season for the home side by heading the winning goal in the second half.
“It feels great, it was like scoring a hat-trick for me,” said Martínez. “Saving a penalty and keeping a clean sheet for me is the best game.”