On May 11, 2008, West Ham United faced Aston Villa in the final match of the Premier League season at Upton Park. The match ended in a 2-2 draw, with both teams sharing the points in a closely contested encounter.
Key Statistics and Analysis
- Scoreline and Goal Timings:
- West Ham United: 2 (Nolberto Solano 8′, Dean Ashton 10′)
- Aston Villa: 2 (Ashley Young 14′, Gareth Barry 58′)
- Possession:
- Aston Villa had 55% possession, while West Ham United had 45%. Villa’s ability to control the ball allowed them to mount a strong comeback after falling behind early in the match.
- Shots:
- West Ham United registered 9 shots, with 4 on target, reflecting their early attacking intent but also their struggle to maintain pressure after taking the lead. Aston Villa had 17 shots, with 7 on target, indicating their persistence in seeking an equalizer and pushing for a potential winner.
- Passing Accuracy:
- Aston Villa displayed a passing accuracy of 82%, completing 414 passes out of 506 attempts. West Ham had a passing accuracy of 75%, completing 297 passes out of 398 attempts. Villa’s superior ball retention and distribution were key factors in their ability to come back from an early deficit.
- Defensive Statistics:
- West Ham made 19 tackles compared to Aston Villa’s 15, highlighting their efforts to disrupt Villa’s play and protect their lead. Both teams committed 11 fouls, showing the competitive nature of the match.
- Set Pieces:
- Nolberto Solano’s opening goal for West Ham came from a deflected free-kick, while Dean Ashton doubled the lead with a well-taken goal from open play. Aston Villa’s goals both came from open play, with Ashley Young scoring from a tight angle and Gareth Barry equalizing with a close-range finish.
- Individual Performances:
- Nolberto Solano was influential for West Ham, scoring the opening goal and providing creativity in midfield. Dean Ashton also played a crucial role, scoring West Ham’s second goal. For Aston Villa, Ashley Young was a constant threat down the wing, scoring the first goal and assisting Gareth Barry for the equalizer.
- Tactical Overview:
- West Ham United employed a 4-4-2 formation, focusing on a strong start and utilizing the physical presence of their forwards. Aston Villa used a 4-4-2 formation as well, aiming to control the midfield and exploit the flanks with the pace of their wingers. Villa’s tactical adjustments after falling behind allowed them to dominate possession and eventually draw level.
- Disciplinary:
- The match saw two yellow cards, both for Aston Villa (Gareth Barry 38′, Nigel Reo-Coker 63′). The fouls were tactical, aimed at breaking up play and preventing West Ham from counter-attacking effectively.
- Corners and Offsides:
- Aston Villa won 8 corners compared to West Ham’s 4, reflecting their sustained pressure, particularly in the second half. Both teams were caught offside twice, indicating disciplined defensive lines and attempts to exploit gaps.
Summary
The 2-2 draw between West Ham United and Aston Villa on the final day of the 2007-08 Premier League season was a well-balanced and entertaining match. West Ham took an early two-goal lead through Nolberto Solano and Dean Ashton, but Aston Villa responded with goals from Ashley Young and Gareth Barry to secure a point. Villa’s ability to control possession and create numerous chances allowed them to come back from a difficult start. West Ham, despite their strong opening, were unable to maintain their momentum and had to settle for a draw. The result had little impact on the final standings, but it showcased the resilience and quality of both teams as they concluded their season.
