A strange pre-match incident unfolded at Villa Park as Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez attempted to push Nottingham Forest players away moments before kick-off in the Europa League semi-final second leg.
Electric Atmosphere at Villa Park
The atmosphere was electric as both sides emerged for the crucial match. Nottingham Forest held a one-goal advantage from the first leg, but suffered a major blow as their captain Morgan Gibbs-White was only fit enough for the bench after a nasty head injury in their Premier League match at the weekend.
Bizarre Pre-Match Incident
Forest appeared to seek any advantage they could get before kick-off, leading to a bizarre incident. With Villa waiting to kick off, Forest players went over to their supporters in the corner of the ground and performed a pre-match huddle in Villa's half. This move angered Villa fans and goalkeeper Emi Martinez.
Never far away from an incident, the Argentina international went across to try and shove the players out of the way. His actions drew loud boos from all sides of the ground, with many believing Forest were attempting to gain an edge before the match started.
