Matty Cash has warned Nottingham Forest to expect a "completely different game" when Aston Villa host them in next week's Europa League semi-final second leg. The Villa defender insists his side have "loads of time" to overturn the one-goal deficit from the first leg at the City Ground.
First Leg Summary
Unai Emery's side fell behind after Chris Wood converted a second-half penalty. The spot-kick was awarded when Lucas Digne raised his arms, blocking Omari Hutchinson's cross. Villa's best chance fell to Ollie Watkins when the game was goalless, but he couldn't beat Stefan Ortega after connecting with Morgan Rogers' deflected effort.
Emi Martinez made a stunning save before the break, denying Igor Jesus. That moment came just after Elliot Anderson was fortunate to stay on the pitch, having followed through on Watkins' ankle in a robust tackle near the dugout.
Cash's Post-Match Comments
Speaking after the defeat, Cash said: "A good atmosphere, two English clubs in the semi-finals of a big competition. It was a good battle, with a lot of key moments in the game and chances for either team."
"They (Forest) are in a good way. Obviously, I know in the league they haven't been that good, but if you look at their last results, they are full of momentum, and especially at the City Ground. I know personally how good it can be here."
"There are always things we can improve on. This was a tough place to come. They have really good players, England internationals in their team and internationals all over. But we are really confident."
"We are still in the game. We are in a European semi-final back at Villa Park, and we have loads to play for. We have just spoken in the dressing room, the manager has said the game is nowhere near done. There's loads of football still to play with our people at home."
Cash added: "Villa Park has been an amazing atmosphere this season, so we know we are going to fight next week and make it really difficult. It's going to be a really different game than tonight, but overall it's okay."
"I know we lost, but it wasn't a bad result, and there's loads of time to play. If you lose or draw tonight, you still have to win next week."
"We'll stay calm, stick together. We know what we are about, we know how good we are at home, and next week I am sure they are going to know that it is going to be a completely different game at Villa Park."
Manager's Message
Cash revealed that manager Unai Emery told the players the tie is far from over. The Villa squad remains confident, believing the home crowd can inspire a turnaround in the second leg.
