A Villa 2 – 1 Leeds

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Aston Villa bounced back from their FA Cup defeat to Stevenage with a 2-1 home win against Leeds United as the pressure mounts on Jesse Marsch.

Leon Bailey’s early goal on the break gave Unai Emery’s side the advantage at Villa Park and the hosts had to withstand heavy pressure from Leeds before Emiliano Buendia doubled his lead in the second half after better work by Bailey – and a VAR review.

Leeds have a chance. Rodrigo had a shot removed from the line by debutant Alex Moreno and another was not allowed for offside, while Emiliano Martinez made a spectacular save from Jack Harrison. Patrick Bamford finally pulled one back after good work by Wilfried Gnonto.

But there will be no repeat of the blow Villa suffered against League Two opposition in the previous fixture. Emery’s men could look to make it a fourth win in six Premier League games under him and move level on points with Chelsea.

The Leeds situation is more dangerous. Although it was a spirited performance, it was also flawed, with sections of the away support calling for Marsch to leave. They remain two points clear of the drop zone and are without a win in seven games in all competitions.