Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has explained why his side suffered a 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa in Saturday’s Premier League clash at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues started the game brightly and took the lead through João Pedro. However, Aston Villa turned the contest around after the break, with substitute Ollie Watkins scoring twice to seal all three points for Unai Emery’s men.
Maresca Blames Missed Chances
Speaking after the match, Maresca admitted that Chelsea failed to take their chances when they were on top.
According to the Italian coach, his side controlled the game before conceding the equaliser. He stressed that the inability to convert opportunities proved costly.
“I think the goal we conceded changed the dynamic of the game,” Maresca said. “Until then, we were in control.”
‘We Must Be More Clinical’ — Maresca
Maresca noted that Chelsea should have built a comfortable lead before Villa found their way back into the contest.
He added that better game management would have helped his team protect their advantage.
“We have to be more clinical,” he said. “And should have scored two or three goals before they equalised. We need to manage the game better.”
The defeat leaves Chelsea searching for consistency as they continue their Premier League campaign.
